Author: Chris Harlan
2025 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Central Catholic’s Colsen Gatten
July 26, 2025
Colsen Gatten’s highlight video starts with a pick-six followed by a nifty one-handed interception a couple of clips later.
WPIAL grants Josh Pratt eligibility at Lincoln Park, yet basketball star must sit out playoffs
July 22, 2025
Josh Pratt, one of the top WPIAL basketball players, can join Lincoln Park on the court for his senior season, but he’s not eligible for the playoffs.
WPIAL rules Seton LaSalle QB Anthony Smith ineligible after transfer from Southmoreland
July 21, 2025
The WPIAL ruled Seton LaSalle transfer Anthony Smith ineligible, sidelining the up-and-coming quarterback for his sophomore season.
2025 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Central Catholic’s Jimmy Kalis
July 19, 2025
Jimmy Kalis is the 6-foot-7 son of a former NFL lineman. Recruiting websites rank him among the best tackles in the country, and he has college offers from most of the national championship favorites.
PIAA taking final steps in flag football journey
July 18, 2025
Eighty yards long. Forty yards wide.
PIAA board supports adding shot clock to high school basketball for 2028-29 season
July 16, 2025
The PIAA has endorsed adding a shot clock to Pennsylvania high school basketball, a move supported by a majority of WPIAL schools.
2 former WPIAL baseball players selected in 2025 MLB Draft
July 14, 2025
Two former WPIAL baseball players were selected Monday in the MLB Draft with one picked by his hometown team.
2025 Trib 25 Preseason Football All-Star Team: Central Catholic’s Ashton Blatt
July 11, 2025
Editor’s note: Each day through Aug. 3, Trib HSSN will profile one member of the 2025 Trib 25 preseason high school football all-star team.
Championship-winning Shaler baseball coach Brian Junker resigns after 3rd WPIAL title
July 10, 2025
Weeks after leading Shaler to a WPIAL baseball title, Brian Junker has resigned as coach after 16 years.
Double first-base bags coming to high school baseball for safety’s sake
July 8, 2025
No, you’re not seeing double.
Navy lands commitment from 3rd WPIAL football recruit in 2026 class
July 1, 2025
The Midshipmen landed a third WPIAL football recruit from the 2026 class when Avonworth lineman Peter Bonnet committed to Navy on Tuesday.
Thomas Jefferson’s Shep Turk named 2024-25 TribLive HSSN Boys Athlete of the Year
TribLive HSSN Boys Athlete of the Year
Quaker Valley’s Mimi Thiero named 2024-25 TribLive HSSN Girls Athlete of the Year
TribLive HSSN Girls Athlete of the Year
Trib HSSN’s top stories from the 2024-25 school year
June 28, 2025
Top high school sports stories from 2024-25
2025 TribLive HSSN Softball Player of the Year: Neshannock’s Addy Frye
June 26, 2025
TribLive HSSN Softball Player of the Year
2025 TribLive HSSN Baseball Player of the Year: Riverside’s Zach Hare
TribLive HSSN Baseball Player of the Year
WPIAL notebook: Eligibility for former Southmoreland QB Anthony Smith on hold for now
June 25, 2025
Former Southmoreland quarterback Anthony Smith, a transfer to Seton LaSalle, must wait a month to learn his eligibility for the fall.
Pine-Richland’s Jay Timmons flips commitment to Florida State, father’s alma mater
June 24, 2025
Another Timmons is headed to Florida State.
West Virginia lands commitment from Bishop Canevin linebacker Minikon Johnson
Bishop Canevin outside linebacker Minikon Johnson committed to West Virginia on Tuesday, choosing the Mountaineers less than two weeks after getting his first college offers.
2025 TribLive HSSN Terrific 10 Softball All-Stars
Here’s a look at the TribLive HSSN softball all-stars for the 2025 season.
2025 TribLive HSSN Terrific 10 Baseball All-Stars
Here’s a look at the TribLive HSSN baseball all-stars for the 2025 season.
Steel Valley defensive back Da’Ron Barksdale commits to Pitt
June 23, 2025
Steel Valley defensive back Da’Ron “Daedae” Barksdale has committed to Pitt, giving the Panthers another WPIAL recruit in the 2026 class.
Woodland Hills linebacker Ziggy Moore commits to N.C. State
June 22, 2025
Woodland Hills linebacker Zykir “Ziggy” Moore committed to N.C. State on Saturday, choosing the Wolfpack from a list of nearly two dozen college football offers.
‘When, not if’: Timing a factor as PIAA basketball committee votes down shot clock proposal
June 18, 2025
For some, the debate about adding shot clocks to Pennsylvania high school basketball is more about “when” rather than “if.”
Spencer Lee, football legends, girls basketball scoring sensations headline WPIAL Hall of Fame class
June 6, 2025
When Spencer Lee first heard he was chosen for the WPIAL Hall of Fame, the former Franklin Regional wrestler felt too young for the honor.
State champion football coach Rod Steele joins Bishop Canevin
June 5, 2025
Title-winning football coach Rod Steele, who celebrated a state championship at Steel Valley, is the new coach at Bishop Canevin.
Nick Lackovich remains ousted as Aliquippa boys basketball coach — at least for now
June 2, 2025
Nick Lackovich remains out of a job as Aliquippa boys basketball coach — at least for now — despite winning a school board vote to bring him back.
South Fayette pass rusher Anthony Charles commits to Minnesota
June 1, 2025
South Fayette defensive end Anthony Charles committed Sunday to Minnesota, choosing the Golden Gophers over several other Big Ten options.
‘One foot in front of the other’: Canon-McMillan football coach Mike Evans on leave amid 2nd battle with cancer
May 31, 2025
Mike Evans felt a 15-inch needle stab into his liver three times to biopsy a cancerous tumor. The Canon-McMillan football coach also endured chemotherapy for weeks and recently battled a case of pneumonia.
Hare Medal: Riverside pitcher throws perfect game vs. Quaker Valley in WPIAL 3A championship game
May 28, 2025
Zach Hare was chasing a WPIAL title, while also knowing that folks were marveling at his no-hit streak.
Rain forces WPIAL to postpone softball championship games to Thursday
Wet weather forced the WPIAL to postpone Wednesday’s scheduled softball championships by a day and move them away from Cal (Pa.).
After aces duel to draw, Shaler downs Pine-Richland in 8 innings to win WPIAL 5A crown
May 27, 2025
Shaler’s Colby Weber and Pine-Richland’s Keegan Deihl waged a pitchers’ duel in the WPIAL finals, but this one was decided only after the two aces ran out of pitches.
2025 WPIAL Class A baseball championship breakdown: Serra Catholic vs. Carmichaels
WPIAL Class A baseball final
2025 WPIAL Class 3A baseball championship breakdown: Riverside vs. Quaker Valley
WPIAL Class 3A baseball final
2025 WPIAL Class 2A baseball championship breakdown: OLSH vs. Freedom
WPIAL Class 2A baseball final
2025 WPIAL Class 6A baseball championship breakdown: Seneca Valley vs. Norwin
May 26, 2025
WPIAL Class 6A baseball final
2025 WPIAL Class 5A baseball championship breakdown: Pine-Richland vs. Shaler
WPIAL Class 5A baseball final
WPIAL announces schedule for 2025 softball finals, 3rd-place games
May 24, 2025
The WPIAL announced start times for the six softball finals Wednesday and Thursday at PennWest’s Lilley Field in California.
WPIAL sets schedule for 2025 baseball championships, 3rd-place games
The WPIAL announced times for its six baseball championship games Tuesday and Wednesday at EQT Park in Washington.
Riverside outlasts South Park in epic 12-inning pitchers’ duel in Class 3A semifinals
May 23, 2025
There were moments in Friday’s semifinal when Riverside coach Dan Oliastro and his players wondered if either team would ever score. The scoreboard ran out of innings, and they were all full of zeroes.
WPIAL postpones baseball, softball semifinals to Friday
May 22, 2025
For the second day in a row, the WPIAL postponed its baseball and softball playoffs because of rain.
PIAA track preview: Quaker Valley athletes seeded 1st in 6 state championship events
Here are storylines to follow when the PIAA track and field individual championships are held Friday and Saturday at Shippensburg University.
Aliquippa ousts 2-time state champion Nick Lackovich as boys basketball coach
Aliquippa boys basketball coach Nick Lackovich was holding an open gym Wednesday, unaware that the school board gathered nearby was voting him out.
Inclement weather leads WPIAL to postpone baseball, softball, lacrosse games scheduled Wednesday
May 21, 2025
An unfavorable weather forecast led the WPIAL to postpone all baseball, softball and lacrosse games scheduled for Wednesday.
Riverside’s Zach Hare no-hits Burrell as short-handed Panthers advance to Class 3A semis
May 20, 2025
It takes more than rain to mess up Riverside’s Hare.
Swinging bunt helps Norwin rally past Butler and into Class 6A semifinals
May 19, 2025
Norwin celebrated a walk-off win in nine innings thanks to a swinging bunt that rolled only a few feet.
Transgender girl from Eastern Pa. fails to qualify for PIAA track and field championships
May 17, 2025
A transgender high school student from Eastern Pennsylvania authorized by a judge to compete in girls track did not qualify for the state championships.
H.S. notebook: PIAA survey on shot clocks will be ‘good litmus test’ for hotly debated topic
May 16, 2025
Shot clocks or no shot clocks?
Johnstown arena to host PIAA team wrestling, competitive spirit championships from 2026-28
State champions in team wrestling and competitive spirit will be crowned in Johnstown for the next three years.
Transgender girl can qualify for state track championships, PIAA says, citing judge’s order
The PIAA will let a transgender girl compete in the state track and field championships next week if the Eastern Pennsylvania student qualifies, the PIAA’s top administrator said Friday.
Waynesburg’s Tyler Groves settles in after rocky start, shuts down Freeport in Class 3A
May 15, 2025
Waynesburg pitcher Tyler Groves gave up a triple, a double and a single to consecutive batters in the first inning Thursday night, but that wasn’t a sign of things to come.
Mohawk distance runner Jaxon Schoedel, other record-breakers live up to hype at WPIAL meet
Mohawk’s Jaxon Schoedel’s teammate turned into his hype man at the WPIAL track championships, shouting his name as the senior climbed atop the medals stand for the second time.
Laurel sprinter Tori Atkins makes history with unprecedented WPIAL 4-peat
May 14, 2025
The drawstring in Tori Atkins’ warmup pants was maybe the toughest opponent the Laurel sprinter faced in her four years at the WPIAL track championships.
WPIAL track preview: Laurel sprinter could make history with ‘quadruple-double’
Record breakers, repeat winners and rain?
WPIAL postpones Tuesday’s baseball, softball games; some quarterfinal sites announced
May 13, 2025
The WPIAL has moved all of Tuesday’s baseball and softball playoff games to Thursday because of rain.
WPIAL delays decision about Moon basketball transfers’ eligibility
May 12, 2025
The basketball eligibility of Moon transfers Jackson and Brody Bauman won’t be decided until next month.
WPIAL announces pairings for 2025 baseball playoffs
North Allegheny was the only defending champion to draw a No. 1 seed Friday when the WPIAL released brackets for the upcoming baseball playoffs.
2025 WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel forecast the baseball playoff pairings
The 2025 WPIAL baseball playoffs are set with 80 teams, including five of the six champions from a year ago — North Allegheny, Penn-Trafford, Avonworth, Seton LaSalle and Bishop Canevin — hoping to defend their crowns.
WPIAL reveals brackets for 2025 softball playoffs
May 8, 2025
Reigning WPIAL softball champions Neshannock and Elizabeth Forward start their title defenses as favorites to repeat.
Mt. Lebanon, South Fayette draw top seeds in 2025 WPIAL boys lacrosse playoffs
Two-time reigning boys lacrosse champion Mt. Lebanon will start its latest title defense as the No. 1 seed in the WPIAL playoffs.
Mars, Pine-Richland earn No. 1 seeds in 2025 WPIAL girls lacrosse playoffs
Two-time defending champion Mars was picked as the favorite to win another WPIAL girls lacrosse title in playoff brackets revealed Thursday.
Norwin takes home 2 trophies from WPIAL 3A team track and field championships
May 6, 2025
The Norwin boys hadn’t won a WPIAL team track title in almost 50 years, but senior hurdler Ryan Schiller had hungered for one for months.
Texas Tech recruit Greg Minnick, battalion of live arms have Indiana primed for playoffs
Indiana pitcher Greg Minnick was offered a chance to see the red rocks of West Texas while in geology class last spring.
WPIAL puts 19 on all-state boys basketball teams
May 4, 2025
The WPIAL had 19 boys basketball players earn all-state honors Sunday, and two were voted as the player of the year for their PIAA classifications.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending May 4, 2025
Class 6A
Not just a ‘Single-A’ athlete: California long jumper Lee Qualk clears 23 feet for Baldwin Invite gold
California’s Lee Qualk rushed for 383 yards in a football game last fall, and on Friday posted another extraordinary number when he long jumped more than 23 feet.
As Baldwin Invite’s meet director, Rich Wright strives to honor late coach Ed Helbig
On the night before the Baldwin Invitational, track coach Rich Wright talked with longtime friend Ed Helbig on the drive home from the stadium. The two Baldwin coaches had run the event for years as a terrific tandem.
Forgot about Scoop? Woodland Hills sprinter reintroduces himself at Baldwin Invitational
Scoop Smith is confident he’s still the fastest man in the WPIAL, even if the speedy Woodland Hills junior hadn’t had a chance to show everybody lately.
Lincoln Park freshman basketball player Damar Johnson recovering after drive-by shooting
May 1, 2025
Lincoln Park boys basketball coach Mike Bariski said he couldn’t imagine anyone wanting to hurt Damar Johnson, a freshman standout who was shot in the arm Wednesday night in Farrell.
Clutch outing from pitcher Carson Franc delivers section title to Avonworth
April 30, 2025
An 0.68 ERA is proof that Avonworth pitcher Carson Franc has had other great outings, but his coach called this one his best yet.
WPIAL postpones team track semifinals to Wednesday
April 29, 2025
The WPIAL has postponed the team track and field semifinals to Wednesday because of unfavorable weather Tuesday.
Pine-Richland defensive back Jay Timmons commits to Indiana, coach Curt Cignetti
April 28, 2025
Pine-Richland junior Jay Timmons committed Monday to play football for Indiana and coach Curt Cignetti, who’s already familiar with Western Pennsylvania.
Stanford lands commitment from Lucas Shanafelt, 2nd football recruit from Peters Township in 2 years
April 27, 2025
Western Pennsylvania seems like unusual recruiting territory for a West Coast college, but ACC newcomer Stanford is fond of one South Hills school district.
Streak ends: NFL Draft includes no WPIAL players for 1st time since 1993
A WPIAL streak that started more than three decades ago ended quietly Saturday.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 27, 2025
Class 6A
Belle Vernon’s Zion Moore to play for top junior college program
April 25, 2025
Belle Vernon senior Zion Moore, one of the WPIAL’s top basketball players, has committed to Harcum College in suburban Philadelphia.
Hot-hitting North Allegheny uses 7-run inning to take section series from rival Seneca Valley
JJ Mancuso offered up a simple explanation for how North Allegheny suddenly scored 17 runs in two days, snapping a string of light-hitting losses.
Pine-Richland puts pressure on Shaler, wins opener of key section series
April 22, 2025
The foul poles on Pine-Richland’s baseball field stand 360 feet from home plate — deeper than those at PNC Park — so there’s a lot of outfield grass to cover.
Pine-Richland hires former college assistant, top WPIAL scorer as boys basketball coach
Steve McNees, a former college assistant who ranks among the WPIAL’s all-time leading scorers, was hired Monday as Pine-Richland’s boys basketball coach.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 20, 2025
Class 6A
Knoch’s Fennell shines at Butler Invitational track meet
April 17, 2025
Knoch’s Kara Fennell has tumbled and flipped since she was about 3 years old, a lifelong gymnast whose skills are worthy of medals.
Veteran coach Daryn Freedman takes Ambridge boys basketball job, likes program’s potential
The standings paint the Ambridge boys as a distressed basketball team: only seven section wins in four years and none this winter.
WPIAL elects 2 newcomers to board of directors for 2025-26 school year
April 16, 2025
The WPIAL board of directors already has two new members for next school year.
PIAA survey asks: Should high school basketball have a shot clock?
Reset the clock on the shot clock debate.
PIAA administrator cautions WPIAL schools after Justice Department sues Maine over transgender policy
A few hours after the Justice Department said it was suing Maine over its transgender athlete policy, PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi cautioned WPIAL schools to discuss the topic with their solicitors.
WPIAL announces 2025 James Collins Scholar-Athlete Award winners
The WPIAL announced the 20 winners of its annual James Collins Scholar-Athlete Award, with each receiving a $1,000 scholarship.
Former East Allegheny football coach plans fundraising dinner for grad needing kidney transplant
April 15, 2025
Dom Pecora knows football, but the former East Allegheny coach also has a knack for food as a restaurateur.
Freshman pitcher keeps grip in soggy conditions, keys victory over Deer Lakes
Gray clouds filled the sky, temperatures slid into the 40s and rain was falling sideways.
Former WPIAL executive director Larry Hanley dies
April 14, 2025
Larry Hanley, who served a nine-year stint as executive director of the WPIAL, died Saturday. He was 83.
WPIAL softball rankings: Week ending April 13, 2025
Class 6A
Gamble pays off as Colby Weber sparks Shaler to rare 2-game sweep of West Allegheny
April 9, 2025
Shaler ace Colby Weber left the mound Monday after throwing only 19 pitches, a strategic gamble by his coach that paid off handsomely two days later.
Quaker Valley graduate Adou Thiero declares for NBA Draft after junior season at Arkansas
April 8, 2025
Quaker Valley graduate Adou Thiero, who emerged as a double-digit scorer for Arkansas, has declared for the NBA Draft.
Aliquippa linebacker Daiveon Taylor commits to Kent State
Aliquippa linebacker Daiveon Taylor committed to Kent State on Monday, completing a recruiting journey that saw him first pick West Virginia.
WPIAL baseball rankings, week ending April 6, 2025
Class 6A
Knoch boys basketball coach steps down after state playoff season
April 4, 2025
Knoch boys basketball coach Alan Bauman has resigned after leading the Knights to the state playoffs this winter.
Aliquippa to host ‘CJ2K vs. World’ charity basketball games Saturday
Aliquippa will host a charity basketball event Saturday featuring high school players from around Western Pennsylvania.
Peters Township’s Natalie Wetzel named 2025 Trib HSSN Girls Basketball Player of the Year
Peters Township’s Natalie Wetzel averaged nearly a double-double this winter for a WPIAL champion, showing off basketball skills that filled stat sheets.
Neighborhood Academy’s Courtney Wallace named 2025 Trib HSSN Boys Basketball Player of the Year
The way Courtney Wallace played this winter was beyond words, said Neighborhood Academy coach Jordan Marks, adding simply: “You’ve got to see it to believe it.”
New football coach T.J. Wiley believes he has found perfect fit at Knoch
April 3, 2025
Knoch ended last football season with fewer than 30 players, an issue new coach T.J. Wiley wants to tackle right away.
2025 Trib HSSN Terrific 10 Boys Basketball All-Stars
Terrific 10
2025 Trib HSSN Terrific 10 Girls Basketball All-Stars
Terrific 10
4 WPIAL basketball players chosen for new PIAA all-championship team honor
March 31, 2025
Four WPIAL basketball players were among 24 student-athletes chosen for the first-ever PIAA Hoopsfest All-Championship Teams.
Baldwin baseball coach faces suspension after WPIAL board says team violated PIAA rule
Baldwin must suspend its baseball coach three games for violating a PIAA rule about open gyms or the team won’t be eligible for the playoffs this season, the WPIAL announced Monday.
South Fayette dethrones 4-time champs to win program’s 1st state title
March 29, 2025
HERSHEY — Archbishop Wood’s reign is over.
Philadelphia’s West Catholic rallies back to defeat South Allegheny in PIAA Class 3A final
HERSHEY – South Allegheny’s Drew Cook tried to stay even-keeled in the state finals, but he and his teammates found out that’s hard to do with a 14-point lead.
2025 PIAA Class 5A girls basketball championship breakdown: South Fayette vs. Archbishop Wood
PIAA Class 5A girls basketball final
2025 PIAA Class 3A boys basketball championship breakdown: South Allegheny vs. West Catholic
PIAA Class 3A boys basketball final
Upper St. Clair goes cold against powerful Perkiomen Valley in era-ending state final
March 28, 2025
HERSHEY — The outcome was decided long before the clock reached zeroes, but Upper St. Clair coach Pete Serio insisted the lopsided score couldn’t drain the emotion out of Friday’s loss.
Sewickley Academy misses last-second shot in 1-point PIAA finals loss to Linville Hill
HERSHEY – Two seconds were almost enough.
2025 PIAA Class 6A girls basketball championship breakdown: Upper St. Clair vs. Perkiomen Valley
PIAA Class 6A girls basketball final
2025 PIAA Class 2A boys basketball championship breakdown: Sewickley Academy vs. Linville Hill
PIAA Class 2A boys basketball final
Loyalsock’s inside-outside duo too much for Shady Side Academy in state title game
March 27, 2025
Shady Side Academy had a one-point lead after halftime, but the Bulldogs couldn’t find a way to contain Loyalsock Township’s two big scorers.
Neighborhood Academy makes winning late-game stand in PIAA Class A final
HERSHEY — Shamar Simpson missed his first five shots from beyond the arc, but his sixth was golden.
Reaching PIAA finals has extra meaning for coach Mike Iuzzolino, Sewickley Academy boys
As an all-state basketball player at Altoona, Mike Iuzzolino made a deep run in the state playoffs as a junior in 1985. His team was undefeated until a crushing semifinal loss to Brashear.
2025 PIAA Class 3A girls basketball championship breakdown: Shady Side Academy vs. Loyalsock Township
March 26, 2025
PIAA Class 3A girls basketball final
2025 PIAA Class A boys basketball championship breakdown: Neighborhood Academy vs. Sankofa Freedom
PIAA Class A boys basketball final
‘The best story nobody has talked much about:’ Neighborhood Academy, Courtney Wallace Jr. storm into state finals
As a future Ivy League finance major, it’s safe to say Courtney Wallace Jr. is good with numbers.
Imani Christian’s David Davis commits to Penn State
March 25, 2025
Imani Christian is among the WPIAL’s smallest schools, but Penn State has landed a big football recruit from there two years in a row.
In WPIAL hearing, Baldwin seeks clarity on ‘very gray’ PIAA rule banning preseason workouts
March 24, 2025
Holding a preseason workout with a baseball team from another school was a mistake, Baldwin’s representatives said at a WPIAL hearing Monday, but they also questioned whether a PIAA rule was too vaguely written.
South Fayette avenges loss to Peters Township, earns trip to state finals
March 22, 2025
The South Fayette girls are headed to the state finals after avenging a WPIAL finals loss to Peters Township.
South Allegheny sparks another late rally, stuns Aliquippa again in PIAA semifinal
Aliquippa surely felt some déjà vu.
Chartiers Valley’s playoff run ends with bitter loss to Hershey in PIAA semifinals
March 21, 2025
CLEARFIELD – Chartiers Valley’s mission was written across the chest of its opponent: Hershey.
Valley collects 14 hits in ‘backyard brawl’ baseball win over rival Burrell
March 19, 2025
The teams don’t share a section anymore, but Valley’s Dante Taliani said he and his teammates get just as excited for any baseball game with Burrell.
WPIAL says baseball, softball teams violated PIAA rules with preseason workouts
March 17, 2025
A PIAA rule about open gyms has tripped up some WPIAL baseball and softball teams this spring.
Tyler Robbins, Upper St. Clair fight off McDowell in overtime, move on to PIAA semifinals
March 15, 2025
Nothing came easy for Upper St. Clair or senior Tyler Robbins, who was roughed up by McDowell’s defense for four quarters and nearly all of overtime.
Chartiers Valley exploits Johnstown’s ‘rough’ shooting night, charges into PIAA semifinals
Chartiers Valley likes to counterpunch whenever an opponent’s shot misses, and Johnstown gave the Colts plenty of chances Friday night.
McKeesport hires WPIAL champion Dan DeRose as boys basketball coach
March 13, 2025
The McKeesport boys basketball team hasn’t won a WPIAL title in a few decades, but the Tigers hired a new coach with one already on his resume.
South Allegheny works game plan to perfection in 2nd-round win over Bishop Guilfoyle
March 12, 2025
South Allegheny’s Josh Jackowski circled into the lane, caught an inbounds pass and scored on a nifty play the team debuted Wednesday night.
Chartiers Valley celebrates another postseason win over section rival Montour in PIAA playoffs
In celebration, Chartiers Valley’s Jayden Davis let go of a half-court shot at the buzzer and it went in.
PIAA declares Uniontown vs. Meadville fight-marred playoff game a double forfeit
March 10, 2025
Neither Uniontown nor Meadville will advance in the PIAA boys basketball playoffs.
Driven by WPIAL finals loss, Aliquippa dominates in PIAA 1st-round win
March 8, 2025
Aliquippa had an entire week to fix what went wrong in the WPIAL finals, which was bad news for Westmont Hilltop.
Fight halts Uniontown vs. Meadville boys basketball game in PIAA playoffs
Officials cut short a state playoff game between the Uniontown and Meadville boys basketball teams Friday night after a fight in the stands spread onto the court.
Montour takes care of business in PIAA 1st round, sets up rematch with Chartiers Valley
March 7, 2025
The only trap Friday night was the defense Montour sprung on its opponent.
Nationally ranked West Mifflin running back Armand Hill commits to West Virginia
West Mifflin’s Armand Hill, a nationally ranked running back recruit, committed Friday to West Virginia.
PIAA faces criticism from all sides after changing transgender athlete policy
March 6, 2025
The PIAA is drawing criticism from all sides for changes made to its transgender athlete policy.
Chartiers Valley beats Peters Township to cap breakthrough season with WPIAL title
March 1, 2025
Chartiers Valley went from being a basketball program in turmoil to a WPIAL champion in a little over a year.
2025 WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball championship: Aliquippa vs. South Allegheny
February 28, 2025
WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball championship
2025 WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship breakdown: Chartiers Valley vs. Peters Township
WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship
Belle Vernon rewards retiring coach with school’s 1st WPIAL title since 1978
February 27, 2025
A retirement party at Petersen Events Center for one of the WPIAL’s winningest boys basketball coaches might seem a bit outlandish. Yet three weeks after Joe Salvino shared his retirement plans, he and his Belle Vernon players were there to celebrate.
2025 WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball championship breakdown: Upper St. Clair vs. New Castle
WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball final
2025 WPIAL Class A boys basketball championship breakdown: Neighborhood Academy vs. Serra Catholic
February 26, 2025
WPIAL Class A boys basketball championship
Resurgent New Castle drops Mt. Lebanon to return to Class 6A title game
February 25, 2025
While celebrating a WPIAL semifinal win Monday night, New Castle’s Ralphie Blundo thought back to this time last year, when he and his teammates were already done for the winter.
North Catholic turns in masterful performance in Class 4A semifinal win over Beaver
February 22, 2025
In a nearly 30-point win, North Catholic’s Jason Fredericks heard his coach keep urging him and his teammates to master the moment.
Offensively gifted Chartiers Valley leans on defense in WPIAL 5A quarterfinal victory over Moon
Chartiers Valley has a talented 2,000-point scorer in Jayden Davis, and the Colts have often shown a knack for beating teams on the offensive end of the floor.
WPIAL sets semifinal sites, times for 2025 basketball playoffs
February 21, 2025
The WPIAL has set semifinal sites and times for all 24 basketball semifinals.
23 WPIAL, City League football players picked for 2025 Big School East-West Game
Five offensive and five defensive linemen were among the 23 WPIAL and City League football players selected for the 2025 PSFCA Big School East-West Game this spring.
Central Catholic finds spark in 4th quarter to win defensive struggle with Fox Chapel
February 20, 2025
Central Catholic and Fox Chapel combined for five points in the first 5 minutes Thursday night, hinting at the struggle between two of the WPIAL best big-school defenses.
PIAA eliminates transgender athlete policy, changes language to comply with Trump’s executive order
The PIAA eliminated its one-sentence transgender athlete policy and changed language in its handbook to no longer ask member schools to determine those students’ “gender” but rather their “sex.”
West Mifflin poised to hire former assistant B.J. Pugh as football coach
B.J. Pugh, a former West Mifflin quarterback and current teacher in the district, is expected to be hired Thursday as football coach at his alma mater.
17 WPIAL football all-stars chosen for 2025 Small School East-West Game
WPIAL title-winning South Park teammates Eric Doerue, Troy Cunningham and Kenyan Brown were among 17 WPIAL football players chosen to compete in the PSFCA Small School East-West Game this spring.
Avonworth boys hold off Knoch in WPIAL Class 4A quarterfinals
February 19, 2025
Avonworth maybe didn’t win the game in the first 5 minutes, but its hot start Wednesday night certainly shaped the final three quarters.
Liam Sheely overcomes shoulder injury with coach’s help as Mt. Lebanon makes late-season surge
February 18, 2025
Liam Sheely’s basketball coach is also a physical therapist, a combination that surely helped Mt. Lebanon’s leading scorer get back on the court this week.
Mt. Lebanon boys win rubber match with Norwin, advance to WPIAL Class 6A quarters
February 17, 2025
Mt. Lebanon’s Sam Deibert scored a game-high 24 points as the sixth-seeded Blue Devils ran away with 61-34 victory over No. 11 Norwin in a first-round rubber match Monday night in the WPIAL Class 6A playoffs.
‘It’s nice for us to be No. 1’: 50 years later, coach, players recall Richland baseball’s 1st section title
February 15, 2025
Whenever Rick Frederick visits the Pine-Richland gym nowadays, he admires the baseball banner hanging on the wall, the one that lists 18 section titles.
12 WPIAL all-stars chosen for 2025 Big 33 Football Classic
February 14, 2025
Five offensive or defensive linemen were among a dozen WPIAL players chosen Friday to represent Pennsylvania in the Big 33 Football Classic this spring.
Rod Steele won’t return as West Mifflin football coach
February 13, 2025
West Mifflin intends to hire a football coach next week, but it won’t be incumbent Rod Steele.
Two-time champ Deer Lakes shows its playoff experience in beating Quaker Valley
Deer Lakes is still unbeaten in the WPIAL playoffs under coach Albie Fletcher, a remarkable three-year streak that added another win Friday night.
WPIAL breaks unwritten rule about 1st-round rematches in basketball playoffs
February 11, 2025
Some WPIAL basketball teams won’t need to scout their playoff opponent much.
Breaking down the 2025 WPIAL boys basketball playoff brackets
February 10, 2025
Breaking down the 2025 WPIAL boys basketball playoffs
No time to waste for 3-time champion South Fayette as WPIAL reveals basketball playoff brackets
South Fayette girls basketball coach Bryan Bennett was surprised by what he saw when the WPIAL released playoff brackets Monday.
WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel forecast the 2025 boys basketball playoff pairings
February 9, 2025
The 2025 boys basketball playoff field is set with 85 teams in the six classifications.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast the 2025 girls basketball playoff pairings
The 2025 girls basketball playoff field is set with 84 teams in six classifications.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 9, 2025
Class 6A
Brady Mayo scores 45, Beaver outlasts Avonworth in OT to share section title
Brady Mayo found a way to let his coach know he wasn’t feeling stressed, even surrounded by a standing-room crowd in a nail-biting atmosphere that ultimately needed overtime.
PIAA to follow Trump’s order barring transgender athletes from girls sports
February 6, 2025
The PIAA, which has allowed transgender high school athletes to compete in its state championships, will heed a presidential executive order barring them from women’s and girls sports.
Imani Christian’s R.J. Sledge celebrates senior night with OT winner vs. Central Catholic
This was for second place in the section and maybe a much better seed in the playoffs, but Imani Christian’s R.J. Sledge felt another strong motivation, too.
Western Pa.’s top football prospects for the Class of 2026
February 5, 2025
The Class of 2026 is on the clock.
North Catholic takes control of section race with frantic, 1-point win over Knoch
February 4, 2025
The WPIAL’s tightest section race remains so thanks to a game that couldn’t get much closer.
Seneca Valley hires former NFL lineman as football coach
February 3, 2025
Former NFL offensive lineman Don Barclay, who was an all-conference athlete at Seneca Valley, is returning to his high school alma mater as football coach.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 2, 2024
Class 6A
Shady Side Academy hires former team captain as football coach
January 31, 2025
Shady Side Academy graduate Andrew Geisler, who served as Thiel’s defensive coordinator last season, is returning to his high school alma mater as football coach.
Baldwin avenges loss to South Fayette, nears 1st section title since 1986
January 29, 2025
The boys basketball banner that lists section titles was conspicuously missing from Baldwin’s gym, moved instead to the locker room at coach Jeff Ackermann’s request.
Former WPIAL standout Meleek Thomas chosen for McDonald’s All American Game
January 28, 2025
Former WPIAL basketball player Meleek Thomas, who transferred out of state for his senior year, was chosen Monday for the McDonald’s All American Game.
Belle Vernon hits glass to beat Knoch in matchup of Class 4A contenders
January 25, 2025
Belle Vernon missed its share of shots after halftime Saturday, but somehow those misses kept finding their way into the basket.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 26, 2024
Class 6A
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 26, 2024
Class 6A
Zach Pollaro’s buzzer-beater in overtime lifts North Hills over No. 2 Seneca Valley
Zach Pollaro practices bank shots from spots all around North Hills’ gym, so bouncing in a 3-pointer off the glass might feel almost routine at times.
PIAA board expands girls volleyball to 6 classes, votes on competitive-balance rule changes
January 24, 2025
The PIAA will expand girls volleyball to six classifications starting in 2026.
Aliquippa players, coach suspended for in-game altercation ahead of section game vs. Freedom
“A travesty of justice” was how Aliquippa boys basketball coach Nick Lackovich described the situation his short-handed team will face Friday night.
Burrell hires former Highlands coach to lead football program
January 23, 2025
Burrell’s new football playbook might borrow some ideas from the Kansas City Chiefs.
Straight shooter sparks Montour to section win over Chartiers Valley
January 22, 2025
Montour’s Colton Straight had a first quarter to remember, yet his buzzer-beater after halftime was the shot Chartiers Valley surely won’t forget.
5 WPIAL quarterbacks named as finalists for Willie Thrower Award
January 21, 2025
The WPIAL’s leading passer, two district champions and a quarterback with more than 6,000 career yards were among the finalists revealed Tuesday for the Willie Thrower Award.
Game between reigning state champs Aliquippa, Imani Christian called off after skirmish
January 19, 2025
A WPIAL boys basketball game between two reigning state champions was cut short Saturday after spectators ran onto the floor during an on-court skirmish.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 19, 2024
Class 6A
‘Little’ brother Ryan Robbins sparks top-ranked Upper St. Clair’s win over Central Catholic
Ryan Robbins may be known around Upper St. Clair as Tyler’s little brother, but there was nothing small about the 6-foot-7 sophomore’s game on Friday night.
WPIAL puts Imani Christian basketball on probation, finds no recruiting violation
January 17, 2025
The WPIAL has put the Imani Christian boys basketball program on probation for one year for “lack of institutional oversight,” the result of a three-month investigation by the league.
Peters Township boys golf coach David Kuhn receives NFHS Coach of the Year award
January 16, 2025
Peters Township boys golf coach David Kuhn, a six-time WPIAL champion in his 25 seasons, has received a national coach of the year award for the 2023-24 school year.
NFL greats Russ Grimm, Ty Law, Olympian Spencer Lee headline 2025 WPIAL Hall of Fame class
January 15, 2025
It’s no surprise that Southmoreland’s Russ Grimm was a good high school football player, but the position he played might astound some.
Montour takes Moon’s best shot in OT thriller
As a top-ranked team with lofty expectations, the stretch run this winter will be anything but dull, Montour coach Bill Minear told his players.
Chartiers Valley hires college assistant as football coach
January 14, 2025
Chartiers Valley hired a college assistant as its next football coach.
WPIAL holds hearing on possible Imani Christian recruiting violations
January 13, 2025
The WPIAL has wrapped up an investigation into possible recruiting violations by the Imani Christian basketball program with a decision pending.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 12, 2024
Class 6A
New Castle boys dominate 2nd half, hand Fox Chapel 1st section loss of season
January 10, 2025
The scoreboard had a tied score at half, yet the game ended under the mercy rule.
Steelers nominate Avonworth football coach Duke Johncour for 2024 Don Shula Award
January 8, 2025
The Pittsburgh Steelers have nominated Avonworth football coach Duke Johncour to represent Western Pennsylvania as one of 32 candidates for the 2024 Don Shula High School Coach of the Year Award.
Reigning WPIAL champion Upper St. Clair routs 6A newcomer Imani Christian, enacts mercy rule
January 7, 2025
The reigning WPIAL champions gave the brazen newcomers a rather unfriendly welcome to Class 6A.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 5, 2024
Class 6A
Avonworth’s Rowan Carmichael puts on a show in Quaker Valley’s friendly confines
Avonworth’s Rowan Carmichael can make a basketball court seem small with long 3-pointers.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 28, 2024
Class 6A
PIAA must pay Aliquippa’s legal fees from Commonwealth Court appeal, judge says
December 24, 2024
The PIAA must pay the legal fees accrued this summer by Aliquippa School District related to an unsuccessful appeal filed by the athletic association.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 22, 2024
Class 6A
2024 TribLive HSSN Terrific 25 Football All-Stars
December 20, 2024
Here’s a look at the TribLive High School Sports Network’s Terrific 25 football all-stars for the 2024 season.
After leading Latrobe’s football resurgence, coach Ron Prady steps down
December 19, 2024
Latrobe could count only one WPIAL playoff win in team history before Ron Prady arrived as football coach three years ago.
Trib HSSN 2024 WPIAL Football Player of the Year: Fort Cherry’s Matt Sieg
December 18, 2024
2024 Trib HSSN Football Player of the Year
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Eastern
December 15, 2024
2024 Eastern All-Conference
2024 All-City League Football Team
All-City League Football Team
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Tri-County South
2024 Tri-County South All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Black Hills
2024 Black Hills All-Conference
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 15, 2024
Class 6A
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 15, 2024
Class 6A
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Century
2024 Century All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Midwestern
2024 Midwestern All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Allegheny
2024 Allegheny All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Allegheny 7
2024 Allegheny 7 All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Interstate
2024 Interstate All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Western Hills
2024 Western Hills All-Conference
Championship coach Gene Matsook steps away after 39 years at Rochester
Gene Matsook was hesitant to take the Rochester job when his brother resigned, unsure at first whether he wanted to run the football program himself.
2024 WPIAL and City League all-conference football teams
December 13, 2024
After the dust has settled and the championships have been won, area high school football coaches take the time to identify the top performers in 17 WPIAL conferences as well as the City League. Here is a list of those teams:
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Parkway
2024 Parkway All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Big Six
2024 Big Six All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Greater Allegheny
2024 Greater Allegheny All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Allegheny Six
2024 Allegheny Six All-Conference
2024 WPIAL Football All-Conference: Northeast
2024 Northeast All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Big East
2024 Big East All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Class 6A
2024 WPIAL Class 6A All-Conference
St. Joseph’s Prep overpowers Central Catholic to win 3rd straight state title
December 7, 2024
MECHANICSBURG — Khyan Billups isn’t the St. Joseph’s Prep running back bound for Ohio State, but the junior might’ve fooled anyone watching him Saturday night.
Gut-wrenching overtime loss dashes Avonworth’s state title hopes in PIAA 3A final
MECHANICSBURG — Avonworth trailed by two touchdowns in the second half of a state championship game and rallied to force overtime.
Central Catholic ready for championship-caliber challenge vs. St. Joseph’s Prep
December 6, 2024
On this side of the state, St. Joseph’s Prep probably finds few fans.
Avonworth sees similarities in PIAA finals opponent Northwestern Lehigh
As Avonworth makes its second trip to the state finals in five years, the Antelopes feel differently about this one.
Mike Warfield returns as Aliquippa football coach after 1-year leave of absence
December 4, 2024
Former Aliquippa coach Mike Warfield said he found himself missing the players and coaches even more than he’d expected when he took this past football season off.
PIAA tweaks competitive balance rule to make bumps in class slightly less likely
Only teams that reach the state finals will be affected by the PIAA competitive-balance rule following a change approved Wednesday.
Early signing day for 2025: WPIAL, City League football players finalize Division I plans
The early signing period arrived earlier than usual.
Interception in end zone clinches high-scoring PIAA semifinal win for Central Catholic
November 30, 2024
ALTOONA — Chrys Black Jr. hoped to take a game ball home with him Saturday, surely a rare treat for a Central Catholic freshman in the state playoffs.
Bishop McDevitt gets physical, runs past Pine-Richland in PIAA Class 5A semifinals
ALTOONA — Bishop McDevitt is headed to the state finals, thanks to a decades-old commitment by the Crusaders to embrace WPIAL football.
Thomas Jefferson stumbles in 2nd half, falls to Lampeter-Strasburg in state semifinals
November 29, 2024
ALTOONA — A dominant second quarter by Thomas Jefferson meant a trip to the state finals was just 24 minutes away.
Pine-Richland faces SEC-bound quarterback with PIAA touchdown record in state semifinals
An SEC-bound quarterback with a record-setting arm and rock-solid game awaits Pine-Richland in the state semifinals.
Thanksgiving football practice a tradition reserved for champions
November 27, 2024
Whenever Thomas Jefferson holds a Thanksgiving Day practice, coach Bill Cherpak never knows who might show up.
Serra Catholic hires former assistant Akeeme Robinson as football coach
Former Serra Catholic assistant coach Akeeme Robinson was hired as head coach, the school announced Wednesday.
Chartiers Valley poised to open football coaching jobs
November 26, 2024
Chartiers Valley may start looking for a new football coach.
Pine-Richland defense shines en route to 9th WPIAL championship
November 23, 2024
Jay Timmons pointed to a corner of Acrisure Stadium where he watched games as a kid, remembering back to when his father played linebacker for the Steelers.
5 things to watch in H.S. football: WPIAL finals at Acrisure Stadium bring added excitement and sometimes new shoes
November 22, 2024
Pine-Richland coach Jon LeDonne wonders what the grass at Acrisure Stadium might look like when the WPIAL 5A final kicks off Saturday night.
Fierce defenses square off when Pine-Richland, Peters Township meet in WPIAL title rematch
November 21, 2024
There are plenty of old football coach sayings that link defense and championships.
Kiski Area football coach Sam Albert hangs up head coach’s whistle after 3 decades
November 20, 2024
Thirty-four years after landing his first head coaching job, Kiski Area football coach Sam Albert has decided those days are over.
PIAA bumps Thomas Jefferson to Saturday, changes sites for Westinghouse, Central Catholic games
The PIAA has pushed Thomas Jefferson’s state playoff game back a day and changed the location of games involving Westinghouse and Central Catholic.
PIAA rules Imani Christian basketball player Kieshaun Demus eligible, reverses WPIAL decision
November 19, 2024
The PIAA reversed an earlier WPIAL decision and ruled Imani Christian basketball player Kieshaun Demus eligible after an appeal hearing Tuesday.
Central Catholic avenges WPIAL title game losses with rout of North Allegheny
November 16, 2024
After three straight losses here in the WPIAL finals, three words summed up Central Catholic’s mood this week: “Enough is enough.”
Central Catholic hopes to finally solve North Allegheny as teams clash again in WPIAL 6A final
Xxavier Thomas is about to play in his fourth WPIAL championship game, a rather rare feat accomplished by the Central Catholic senior.
Pine-Richland bulldozes Bethel Park to earn return trip to Class 5A finals
Josh Nindl celebrated Friday night with a WWE-style championship belt slung over his shoulder.
Quarterback’s quick return boosts No. 1 Pine-Richland for WPIAL semifinal vs. high-scoring Bethel Park
November 15, 2024
There were concerns Aaron “Oobi” Strader had broken his collarbone late in the regular season, an injury that would’ve cost top-seeded Pine-Richland its quarterback.
5 things to watch in H.S. football: Will coaches Cherpak, Walker add to WPIAL trophy collections?
McKeesport’s Matt Miller and Central Catholic’s Ryan Lehmeier will try to win their first WPIAL titles as head coaches this week. It won’t come easy, since their coaching counterparts in Saturday’s finals already have big trophy collections.
Seneca Valley football coach Ron Butschle steps down after ‘difficult year’
November 13, 2024
Citing a “negativity” around the program, Ron Butschle resigned Tuesday as Seneca Valley’s football coach, saying his exit might give the team a fresh start.
Former Lincoln Park basketball star Meleek Thomas commits to Arkansas
November 11, 2024
Former Lincoln Park basketball star Meleek Thomas committed Monday to Arkansas.
5 things we learned from 2nd week of WPIAL football playoffs: Remarkable Aliquippa streak ends
November 9, 2024
It took a big win by another elite program to snap Aliquippa’s amazing WPIAL championship streak.
WPIAL announces semifinal sites for next round of football playoffs
The WPIAL on Saturday released sites for the next round of football playoff games.
‘Streaks are meant to be broken’: No. 1 Thomas Jefferson ends Aliquippa’s run of 16 straight finals appearances
November 8, 2024
The streak is over.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football: Rematches galore in 2nd week of playoffs
Rarely does a WPIAL football team play the same opponent in back-to-back games, but that’s the situation facing Beaver.
Class 4A heavyweights to collide when Aliquippa meets Thomas Jefferson
November 7, 2024
Go back in time four years to when Thomas Jefferson and Aliquippa met in the 2020 WPIAL finals. It seemed then that a new rivalry was blossoming with the Quips’ arrival in Class 4A.
‘Focus, eyes forward’: After rule change snafu, Allderdice boys soccer set for PIAA tournament
November 5, 2024
When the WPIAL released its brackets for the boys soccer playoffs, Allderdice wasn’t included. The Dragons had learned weeks earlier that they weren’t eligible, but it still stung.
5 things we learned from 1st round of WPIAL football playoffs: South Allegheny returns to the party
November 2, 2024
The last time South Allegheny won a WPIAL playoff game, fans might have skipped a Friday night episode of the “A-Team” or “Dallas” to instead watch the Gladiators.
Fort Cherry junior Matt Sieg commits to Penn State
Penn State was the first of nearly two dozen schools to offer Fort Cherry’s Matt Sieg a scholarship, but ultimately the Nittany Lions’ offer was all he needed.
WPIAL announces sites for Friday’s football playoff games
The WPIAL on Saturday announced sites for the next round of football playoff games.
Tyler Eber runs for 238 yards, 2 TDs as No. 1 Thomas Jefferson rolls past West Allegheny
November 1, 2024
Thomas Jefferson’s Tyler Eber wasn’t counting his carries, and neither was his coach, so they were a little surprised to hear he’d run the ball nearly 50 times.
5 things to watch in WPIAL opening round: Wild card decisions under scrutiny
Did the WPIAL football committee get the wild cards right?
Thomas Jefferson finds ‘true identity’ ahead of WPIAL playoff test vs. West Allegheny
October 31, 2024
It’s tough to win in November as a WPIAL football team with an identity crisis.
Breaking down the 2024 WPIAL football playoffs
Class 6A
Class 4A seeds raise eyebrows as WPIAL releases brackets for 2024 football playoffs
“Shocked and surprised.”
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2024 football playoff pairings
Outside of wild cards, the 2024 WPIAL playoff field is set.
Beaver knocks off Avonworth, creates 3-way tie for Western Hills title
Beaver won its first conference title in almost two decades, but coach Cort Rowse didn’t care to ponder whether this was the biggest win in recent history.
5 things to watch in Week 9: New wild card approach puts playoff hopes in WPIAL football committee’s hands
October 25, 2024
In most other years, Friday’s finale between Hopewell and North Catholic might be considered almost a play-in game.
Avonworth seeks another outright Western Hills title but Beaver can force 3-way tie
Which WPIAL football team has the longest conference winning streak now that Aliquippa’s has ended? That would be Avonworth, which hasn’t lost to a conference foe since 2021.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2024 football playoff pairings
October 23, 2024
The 2024 WPIAL football playoff field is taking shape with 35 teams having already clinched a spot entering Week 9.
State legislators support in-depth study of PIAA policies, structure, finances
October 22, 2024
State legislators have voted to launch a comprehensive review of the PIAA.
5 things we learned in Week 8: Might WPIAL’s longest playoff drought be nearing its end?
October 19, 2024
Carlynton football hasn’t had many chances to celebrate in recent years, a harsh reality that coach John Tortorea doesn’t hide from his players.
WPIAL high school football rankings: Week ending Oct. 20, 2024
Class 6A
2-point gamble pays off as No. 2 Montour tops No. 1 Aliquippa, earns Parkway Conference title
Montour wasn’t playing for overtime.
Montour wants to disrupt Aliquippa’s 5-year dominance in Parkway Conference
October 18, 2024
The Parkway has a reputation as one of the WPIAL’s tougher conferences, but Aliquippa seems to have tamed it.
5 things to watch in Week 8: WPIAL playoffs seem to have started for some teams
There are two weeks left in the regular season, but Mt. Lebanon coach Greg Perry told his team that their playoffs start Friday.
Imani Christian says ‘unique quirk’ in enrollment process may have violated PIAA transfer rules
October 16, 2024
A “unique quirk” in the enrollment process for Imani Christian students may have led to a violation of PIAA transfer rules, said the school, which is the subject of a WPIAL investigation.
Westinghouse, USO football players face suspensions for City League semifinals
The Westinghouse and USO football teams must play shorthanded in the City League semifinals because of their game-ending altercation last Friday.
Ringgold completes investigation, allows football team to resume season
October 15, 2024
An investigation into alleged misconduct by Ringgold football players was completed and the team can resume its season, the school district announced Monday.
WPIAL launches investigations into Baldwin, Imani Christian over ‘possible recruiting violations’
October 14, 2024
The WPIAL has launched separate investigations into the Baldwin and Imani Christian athletic departments over potential recruiting violations.
Teams can compete in additional regular season contests under WPIAL policy change
WPIAL wrestlers can compete in more matches than usual starting this winter, and teams in other sports might see their regular season schedules increase as well.
Wrestling standout Dylan Pitzer remains ineligible following WPIAL hearing
Wrestling standout Dylan Pitzer, a WPIAL runner-up last winter, remains ineligible for his junior season after a hearing Monday at the league office in Scott.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 7: Class 2A has new look
October 12, 2024
In some WPIAL football classifications, the names near the top of the conference standings don’t change too much from year to year.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 13, 2024
Class 6A
Run-heavy Upper St. Clair takes to air for winning points in showdown with Bethel Park
October 11, 2024
The goldfish maybe isn’t the most intimidating of animals, but that’s the one Upper St. Clair’s Charlie Bywalski was thinking about Friday night.
5 things to watch in Week 7: Undefeated conference foes battle in 7 key WPIAL matchups
Call them the “Super 7” of Week 7.
High-scoring Bethel Park offense brings balance into Allegheny Six clash with Upper St. Clair
The WPIAL’s highest-scoring offense has gone all season without arguably its best player, but that’ll change Friday.
Ringgold calls off football game vs. Thomas Jefferson, investigates ‘alleged incidents of misconduct’
October 10, 2024
Ringgold has called off Friday’s football game while investigating unspecified allegations “that involve members of the football team.”
6 WPIAL coaches earn statewide honor from PIAA for 2023-24 seasons
Six WPIAL coaches earned statewide recognition Wednesday when the PIAA announced its coaches of the year for the 2023-24 school year.
Rochester football player Carter Mason recovering in hospital after in-game head injury, brain bleed
October 8, 2024
Terri Mason was home watching a livestream of the Rochester football game when she realized something was wrong.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 6: North Allegheny’s Walker hits 250 wins
October 5, 2024
Art Walker as a kid witnessed plenty of wins at Mt. Lebanon’s stadium, a place where his father coached for years.
‘Why change it?’: No. 2 Upper St. Clair rides running game to take down No. 4 South Fayette
There wasn’t much mystery around Upper St. Clair’s offense Friday night. The Panthers ran the football 43 times, which is pretty much what they did last week, too.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 6, 2024
Class 6A
Upper St. Clair faces yet another undefeated Allegheny Six foe, this time South Fayette
October 4, 2024
With the regular season already half over, Upper St. Clair will likely face three undefeated teams in a row.
5 things to watch in Week 6: Move over quarterbacks, is the WPIAL now the cradle of kickers?
Which decades-old kicking record might be broken this week?
Beaver boys soccer must forfeit section win under new PIAA rule
October 3, 2024
The Beaver boys soccer team must forfeit a section win because of a new rule that school administrators say should be reconsidered.
WPIAL erases section games vs. Allderdice, Obama Academy from soccer standings
The WPIAL has erased some section wins and losses in boys and girls soccer.
WPIAL sets brackets for 2024 team golf championships
October 2, 2024
Thirty-four boys teams and 13 girls teams will compete next week for WPIAL golf titles.
Imani Christian basketball player among 3 transfers ruled ineligible by WPIAL
September 30, 2024
Imani Christian basketball player Kieshaun Demus, a sophomore who transferred from North Hills, was ruled ineligible for his sophomore season by the WPIAL.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 5: Hopewell kicker ties record with 55-yard boot
September 28, 2024
Hopewell hasn’t had many moments to celebrate in recent years, but kicker Rocco Marcantonio gave the team one Friday night.
Behind crew of 1st-time starters, North Allegheny cross country teams leading the pack
If North Allegheny defends its boys and girls WPIAL country titles this fall, the celebration will surely include a number of first-time champions.
Pick-6 propels Central Catholic past rival North Allegheny in WPIAL finals rematch
Against an offense with a sophomore at quarterback and a banged-up running game, Central Catholic didn’t allow them any stress relief in Friday’s second half.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 29, 2024
Class 6A
Familiar championship foes North Allegheny, Central Catholic won’t look beyond Friday
September 27, 2024
Central Catholic and North Allegheny seem likely to meet twice this season, maybe with a rematch in the WPIAL finals.
5 things to watch in Week 5: Little room for error in WPIAL 4A with 8-team playoff ahead
Eight maybe isn’t enough when counting WPIAL playoff berths.
Westinghouse’s defense dominates Allderdice in battle for 1st place in City League
Dozens of skulls and crossbones already decorate Josiah Collins’ helmet, decals awarded by Westinghouse coaches for sacks, tackles for loss and other explosive plays made on defense.
Derry javelin champ Sophia Mazzoni commits to Auburn
September 25, 2024
Derry javelin thrower Sophia Mazzoni, an elite talent with state and national titles, committed Wednesday to Auburn.
5 things we learned from Week 4 of WPIAL football season: Power shifts south in Class 5A
September 21, 2024
There could be a lot of football talk in the South Hills this fall, maybe while eating sandwiches stuffed with French fries and coleslaw.
WPIAL high school football rankings: Week ending Sept. 22, 2024
Class 6A
Behind determined defense, Penn Hills hands Aliquippa 1st regular-season loss since 2021
The night ended much the way it started with the Penn Hills defense celebrating a stop.
Despite mismatch in enrollments, Aliquippa draws nonconference clash vs. Penn Hills
September 20, 2024
Aliquippa went to court to avoid a promotion to Class 5A football this fall, but the Quips still get a taste of that classification on Friday.
5 things to watch in Week 4: Excitement builds in Monessen for battle of undefeated teams
The buildup to facing a defending WPIAL champion was always going to be big, but undefeated records make this Monessen’s biggest home game in quite a while.
Shady Side Academy football coach Chuck DiNardo resigns
September 19, 2024
Chuck DiNardo has resigned as football coach at Shady Side Academy, stepping down four games into his eighth season with the Bulldogs.
PIAA adopts girls flag football as sanctioned high school sport statewide
September 18, 2024
Flag football is officially a sanctioned sport for Pennsylvania high school girls, meaning the WPIAL and PIAA soon will be crowning champions.
WPIAL notebook: Wrestling teams want in-season tournaments exempt from PIAA contest limit
September 17, 2024
If WPIAL wrestling teams get their wish, some in-season tournaments no longer will count toward their 22-contest limit set by the PIAA.
Clairton reveals ‘Tyler Boyd Stadium’ as new name for high school football field
September 16, 2024
Not only is Clairton’s football stadium getting new turf, new bleachers and new lights, it also has a new name: Tyler Boyd Stadium.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 3: Rare low-scoring tilts draw attention
September 14, 2024
Don’t call for maintenance.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 15, 2024
Class 6A
Missing its top 3 running backs, Pine-Richland fends off North Hills in Northeast opener
The Pine-Richland roster lists Jalen Neals as a wide receiver, but the versatile junior had a hint that his coaches were planning a position change.
Season-ending knee injury sidelines Alabama recruit Fiona Mahan as Avonworth chases 4th straight WPIAL title
September 13, 2024
Fiona Mahan continues to guide Avonworth on its quest for a fourth straight WPIAL girls soccer title, but the senior has taken on a new role after a season-ending knee injury.
North Hills rides momentum of 3-0 start into conference opener vs. Pine-Richland
North Hills is off to its first 3-0 start in five years, early-season success that coach Pat Carey credits to the snaps his seniors logged over a couple of tough seasons.
5 things to watch in Week 3: Conference openers arrive for many WPIAL football teams
September 12, 2024
WPIAL schedule-makers gave everyone at least a couple of warm-ups to start the schedule. Now, the majority of WPIAL teams will jump into conference play.
Aliquippa requests court-appointed mediator to settle football lawsuit vs. PIAA
September 10, 2024
The PIAA has until Friday to decide whether it wants to resolve its legal battle with Aliquippa School District through mediation.
5 things we learned in Week 2 of WPIAL football: Ringgold finally gets back in win column
September 7, 2024
Ringgold was ready to snap the longest active losing streak in the WPIAL when the Rams went for two in overtime a week ago. But the gamble failed in a heartbreaking 14-13 loss.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 8, 2024
Class 6A
North Allegheny boys soccer focused on unfinished business
A WPIAL title slipped away on penalty kicks and a trip to the state finals fell two rounds short.
Central Catholic forgets about 0-2 start with mercy rule win over Woodland Hills
The PA announcer at the Wolvarena encouraged fans to travel home safely and never talk about this game again.
5 things to watch in Week 2: NFL encroaches on Friday night high school football tradition
September 6, 2024
The storied tradition of Friday night football adds another chapter this week with high school games all across Pennsylvania. But might a game played in South America keep some fans home, especially on the other side of the state?
Transfer Devin Harris eligible to quarterback Penn Hills in WPIAL playoffs
September 4, 2024
If Penn Hills makes the football playoffs as the Indians hope, quarterback Devin Harris is eligible to lead them.
Wrestling standout Dylan Pitzer ineligible after transfer from Mt. Pleasant to Derry
Wrestling standout Dylan Pitzer, a WPIAL runner-up last winter, could miss his junior season after transferring from Mt. Pleasant to Derry.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 1: Weather throws teams for loop
August 31, 2024
Thunderstorms barreled into Allegheny and Beaver counties Friday night causing lengthy lightning delays at games from Aliquippa to Avonworth.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 1, 2024
Class 6A
North Allegheny girls volleyball chasing 8th straight PIAA title
Here is an easy way to put a state championship streak in perspective.
Peters Township punishes McKeesport with defense, running game
Peters Township knows a little about running the football, too.
Peters Township draws matchup with McKeesport’s triple-option in Week 1 nonconference clash
August 30, 2024
McKeesport runs an offense that’s rather unique in the WPIAL, leading opponents to scheme up new ways to defend against the triple-option.
Kraft Heinz, Aliquippa breaking ground on athletic, academic center near school’s football stadium
A year after Aliquippa announced a partnership with Kraft Heinz, the two will break ground Friday on a new athletic and academic center near the school’s football stadium.
5 things to watch in Week 1: Aliquippa’s new coach debuts in battle of state champions
Some coaching jobs come with more pressure than others.
‘He related to everybody:’ Friends, coaches, athletes mourn Baldwin track and field coach Ed Helbig
August 28, 2024
Ed Helbig didn’t need to yell or get loud to motivate his athletes, yet the longtime Baldwin coach’s voice was certainly the biggest in WPIAL track and field.
Mars boys basketball coach Rob Carmody resigns after 26 years
August 27, 2024
Once Rob Carmody decided now was the time to resign as Mars’ boys basketball coach, his son Robby had a request.
Nationally ranked St. Frances Academy tops Central Catholic in showcase at Wolvarena
August 25, 2024
There was no surprise about the talent Central Catholic’s opponent brought to town.
5 things we learned in high school football Week Zero: Kick returns liven up openers
August 24, 2024
The spread offense. The no-huddle. The Gatorade shower.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Aug. 25, 2024
Class 6A
Montour defense stands tall against Central Valley rushing attack in Week Zero victory
Breaking long runs can be a big part of Central Valley’s offense, especially with a 200-pound running back that has a hard-to-tackle reputation.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the coaches
August 23, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top coaching changes for the 2024 season.
Central Valley, Montour maintain ‘really healthy rivalry’ with Week Zero rematch
One point was the margin last year when Montour and Central Valley met in a conference game, so how could they not have a rematch?
5 things to watch in Week Zero: Wolvarena showcase includes visit by national powerhouse
St. Frances Academy, a traditionally talented high school football team from Baltimore, has a schedule dotted with national powers.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the specialists
August 22, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top kickers and punters for the 2024 season.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the safeties
August 21, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top safeties for the 2024 season.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the cornerbacks
August 20, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top cornerbacks for the 2024 season.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the linebackers
August 19, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top linebackers for the 2024 season.
WPIAL Class 5A preview: Increased playoff field a welcomed change
August 18, 2024
Upper St. Clair and Woodland Hills felt the disappointment last season, and Penn Hills experienced it two years ago.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the defensive line
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top defensive linemen for the 2024 season.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the offensive line
August 17, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top offensive linemen for the 2024 season.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the tight ends
August 16, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top tight ends for the 2024 season.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the wide receivers
August 15, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top wide receivers for the 2024 season.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs
August 14, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top running backs for the 2024 season.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks
August 13, 2024
Starting today, TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top quarterbacks for the 2024 season.
WPIAL approves new section alignments for spring sports in 2025, ’26 seasons
August 12, 2024
Knowing that boys volleyball coaches prefer room in the schedule for tournaments, the WPIAL on Monday approved a new section alignment with that idea in mind.
Record-setting quarterback eligible at Western Beaver after forgoing Central Catholic transfer
Record-setting quarterback Jaivin Peel is fully eligible for his sophomore football season at Western Beaver after a hearing Monday at the WPIAL office in Scott.
After eventful offseason, new coach out to continue Aliquippa’s tradition of excellence
August 10, 2024
Editor’s note: Trib HSSN will publish team-by-team previews for one conference per day until the start of the high school football season Aug. 23.
Fit to be tied after missing playoffs, Upper St. Clair poised for big season
August 9, 2024
Forget about tiebreakers or wild cards, Upper St. Clair’s mission this fall is to win enough conference games to clinch a playoff spot without any help.
Defending WPIAL champion Peters Township not looking past next opponent
Editor’s note: Trib HSSN will publish team-by-team previews for one conference per day until the start of the high school football season Aug. 23.
Woodland Hills looks to give Scoop Smith more help, return to playoffs
August 8, 2024
Getting the ball to Scoop Smith was the best option any time Woodland Hills’ offense faced a tough spot and needed a big play.
Gateway to follow veteran offensive linemen to success in Class 5A
No matter which quarterback Gateway starts behind center or which running back carries the ball, the Gators know their success is on the line.
Upper St. Clair’s Tyler Robbins commits to Miami (Ohio)
August 6, 2024
Upper St. Clair’s Tyler Robbins, a 6-foot-10 forward who won a WPIAL basketball title last winter, committed Tuesday to Miami (Ohio).
Sad day at Allderdice as football team takes practice field without late coach Jerry Haslett
August 5, 2024
Mark Matson’s morning started with a scavenger hunt of sorts as the Allderdice assistant coach searched through boxes for the football team’s practice jerseys.
McKeesport sophomore Kemon Spell gives Penn State 1st commitment from 2027 class
August 2, 2024
McKeesport sophomore Kemon Spell can’t sign with for two more years, but the highly recruited running back and defensive back has already picked his college.
PIAA drops appeals court fight vs. Aliquippa football; school’s lawsuit continues
The PIAA has ended its appeals-court efforts to move Aliquippa football into a higher classification this fall.
WPIAL schedules eligibility hearing for record-setting QB after transfer to Central Catholic
July 30, 2024
The WPIAL will require an eligibility hearing for record-setting quarterback Jaivin Peel.
WPIAL grants eligibility to 4 transfers, denies Central Catholic football freshman
July 29, 2024
Greensburg Central Catholic transfer Anthony “A.J.” Tarpley is fully eligible to play basketball for the Centurions this winter.
2024 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Elizabeth Forward’s Christopher Climes
July 26, 2024
Christopher Climes works out with a professional soccer trainer, which wouldn’t seem unusual if the senior were a midfielder on Elizabeth Forward’s soccer team.
WPIAL announces 2024 championship schedule for fall sports
July 25, 2024
Eight months before the world’s top golfers converge on Oakmont Country Club for the U.S. Open, some of the WPIAL’s best players will try to tame the historic course.
City League mourns death of longtime Allderdice football coach Jerry Haslett
July 24, 2024
Longtime City League coach Jerry Haslett, who hailed from a football family, died Wednesday. He was 59.
Mt. Lebanon pitcher David Shields signs with Kansas City Royals, forgoes college baseball
July 22, 2024
Mt. Lebanon’s David Shields is turning pro.
2024 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Upper St. Clair’s Nate Stohl
July 21, 2024
As an all-conference lineman committed to an Ivy League school, Nate Stohl’s coaches could talk at length about the senior’s football skills.
Appellate judge denies PIAA request, keeping Aliquippa in Class 4A football
July 18, 2024
The injunction keeping Aliquippa in Class 4A football remains in place after a Commonwealth Court judge denied a PIAA request for a stay.
WPIAL releases 2024-25 basketball schedules, updates section alignment for girls teams
The WPIAL released basketball schedules for the upcoming season Thursday and revealed an updated section alignment for girls that moved Greensburg Central Catholic to Class 3A.
Knoch transfer Colt Sprankle earns postseason eligibility after PIAA board overturns WPIAL
The PIAA board overturned a WPIAL decision and granted postseason eligibility to Knoch junior Colt Sprankle, a football-playing transfer from Armstrong.
PIAA board favors 6 classes for girls volleyball, rejects plan to expand track to 3
July 17, 2024
STATE COLLEGE — The PIAA wants to increase girls volleyball to six classifications, but a request to expand track and field to three was rejected by the board.
PIAA endorses potential changes to competitive-balance rule, could allow appeals on health and safety grounds
STATE COLLEGE — The PIAA board wants to remove some much-maligned words from its competitive-balance rule: those that have prohibited health and safety as grounds for an appeal.
PIAA asks appellate court to lift injunction that keeps Aliquippa in 4A football
July 16, 2024
A Commonwealth Court judge must decide whether there was a proper basis for a lower court’s ruling that kept the Aliquippa football team in Class 4A.
Aliquippa’s Mike Warfield taking ‘leave of absence’ as Quips’ football coach
July 15, 2024
Mike Warfield says football fans will see him at Aliquippa’s stadium this fall, but adds with a laugh that his new job on Friday nights might be selling 50/50 tickets.
PIAA proposal to force 2-time state champions into higher class lacks support from WPIAL board
The WPIAL doesn’t favor a potential PIAA rule that forces two-time defending state champions into a higher classification.
Mt. Lebanon’s David Shields picked by Royals in 2nd round of MLB Draft
July 14, 2024
Kansas City Royals scouts came to Mt. Lebanon in April to watch David Shields pitch and stayed around to talk after he struck out 13 batters in a complete-game win.
The Southern Columbia rule? Teams winning consecutive state titles would be moved into higher class under PIAA proposal
July 12, 2024
Some might call it the Southern Columbia rule.
2024 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: North Allegheny’s Jack Yatchenko
July 11, 2024
Jack Yatchenko was on the sideline for the play that pretty much clinched a WPIAL title for North Allegheny.
Peters Township’s Natalie Wetzel commits to play basketball at Miami (Fla).
July 9, 2024
Peters Township rising senior Natalie Wetzel, one of the WPIAL’s top girls basketball recruits, had college offers that stretched from New England to the Southwest.
Seneca Valley’s Lexie Hames, Neshannock’s Addy Frye top 2024 all-state softball teams
July 5, 2024
Two WPIAL softball players, Seneca Valley’s Lexie Hames and Neshannock’s Addy Frye, were named Pennsylvania’s top pitcher and player when all-state teams were announced Friday.
Armstrong’s Emma Paul named 2023-24 TribLive HSSN Girls Athlete of the Year
July 3, 2024
Paul video
Butler’s Drew Griffith named 2023-24 TribLive HSSN Boys Athlete of the Year
Drew Griffith video
PIAA asking Commonwealth Court for emergency stay to force Aliquippa football to Class 5A
With football season only weeks away, the PIAA has asked the Commonwealth Court for an expedited hearing that could force Aliquippa into a higher classification.
2024 Pa. State Baseball Coaches Association all-state team includes 44 players from WPIAL, City League
July 1, 2024
More than 40 WPIAL and City League baseball players earned all-state recognition Monday as chosen by the Pennsylvania State Baseball Coaches Association.
Top stories of the 2023-24 school year in WPIAL sports
June 29, 2024
Here’s a look back at the biggest high school sports stories of the 2023-24 school year.
WPIAL will tweak girls basketball sections to move Greensburg Central Catholic to 3A
June 20, 2024
The WPIAL must amend its girls basketball section alignment for next season to move Greensburg Central Catholic from Class 2A to 3A.
Newly hired boys basketball coach Brandon Sensor sees Shaler as ‘right opportunity’
When Brandon Sensor resigned at Chartiers Valley four months ago, the boys basketball coach insisted that wouldn’t be the end of his coaching journey.
Shaler poised to hire boys basketball coach Brandon Sensor
June 18, 2024
Former Chartiers Valley boys basketball coach Brandon Sensor is close to returning to the WPIAL.
WPIAL reveals updated section alignments for winter sports including basketball, wrestling
The big-school classification in WPIAL boys basketball is getting a little bigger this winter, but not big enough for more than two sections.
PIAA to appeal Beaver County judge’s decision that kept Aliquippa in 4A football
June 17, 2024
The PIAA is taking its legal battle with Aliquippa to Commonwealth Court, hoping to undo a Beaver County judge’s ruling that says the Quips can play football in Class 4A next season.
Avonworth says disputed call in PIAA finals shifted momentum in 12-0 loss to Neumann-Goretti
June 14, 2024
STATE COLLEGE — Every bit of momentum was on Neumann-Goretti’s side when Andrew Dankanich bounced a game-ending grand slam off the left-field foul pole, handing Avonworth a 12-0 loss in five innings.
Eden Christian falls to undefeated Faith Christian in PIAA Class A final
STATE COLLEGE — One imperfect inning dashed Eden Christian’s thoughts of playing the spoiler.
Indiana’s 1st appearance in PIAA baseball finals ends with walk-off loss to Holy Ghost Prep
June 13, 2024
STATE COLLEGE — Indiana reached the state finals for the first time, but like the WPIAL championship two weeks earlier, the Little Indians again watched someone else celebrate.
PIAA Class A baseball championship preview: Eden Christian vs. Faith Christian
The PIAA baseball championships return Thursday and Friday to Penn State’s Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, where the games have been held since 2011.
PIAA Class 3A baseball championship preview: Avonworth vs. Neumann-Goretti
The PIAA baseball championships return Thursday and Friday to Penn State’s Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, where the games have been held since 2011.
PIAA Class 4A baseball championship preview: Indiana vs. Holy Ghost Prep
June 12, 2024
The PIAA baseball finals return Thursday and Friday to Penn State, the state championship host since 2011.
WPIAL basketball standout Meleek Thomas leaving Lincoln Park for Overtime Elite pro league
June 11, 2024
WPIAL basketball standout Meleek Thomas is leaving Lincoln Park to join Overtime Elite, a professional league and academy for 16- to 20-year-olds based in Atlanta.
Avonworth reaches 1st PIAA championship game after fast start in state semifinal
June 10, 2024
HOMER CITY — Extra-inning wins had become Avonworth’s specialty in these playoffs, but the Antelopes weren’t waiting around this time.
Acclaimed senior class accomplished plenty for North Allegheny baseball
June 8, 2024
The worst day for any high school baseball coach is cut day, says North Allegheny’s Andrew Heck. That’s when the roster gets whittled down before the season opener.
Former WPIAL, Wild Things player James Meeker gets MLB call-up from Brewers
June 7, 2024
Former WPIAL baseball player James Meeker, a North Allegheny graduate who got his professional start with the Washington Wild Things, was called up to the major leagues Friday for the first time.
PIAA announces semifinal sites, times for 2024 state softball playoffs
Neshannock and Laurel won’t travel far for the next round of the PIAA softball playoffs and neither will Chartiers-Houston or Carmichaels.
PIAA releases semifinal sites, times for 2024 state baseball playoffs
WPIAL baseball teams Avonworth, Eden Christian and Indiana learned the site and time of their state semifinal games when the PIAA released the schedule Friday.
Seneca Valley’s Lexie Hames named Gatorade Pa. Softball Player of the Year
Seneca Valley pitcher Lexie Hames was named Gatorade Pennsylvania Softball Player of the Year on Friday, making her the first WPIAL athlete to win the award in six years.
Unlikely hero pitches unsinkable Avonworth to another extra-innings win
June 6, 2024
Carson Franc kept working on his pitches and believing his time on the mound could come, despite having thrown very few innings all season.
WPIAL rules Aliquippa rising junior ineligible following transfer from North Hills
Aliquippa’s Jamar Allen, an all-conference football player who transferred from North Hills, was ruled ineligible Thursday by the WPIAL.
PIAA releases quarterfinal sites, times for 2024 state softball playoffs
June 4, 2024
The PIAA has announced sites and times for the the state softball quarterfinals with 10 WPIAL teams still in contention for a title.
PIAA announces quarterfinal sites, times for 2024 state baseball playoffs
The PIAA has announced sites and times for the next round of the state baseball playoffs with only eight WPIAL teams having survived to reach the quarterfinals.
Football committee will choose wild card teams under new WPIAL postseason format
The WPIAL has finalized its postseason plans for next football season and on Tuesday revealed a new system for choosing wild card teams.
WPIAL releases updated football schedules with Aliquippa returning to 4A
The WPIAL released updated football schedules Tuesday that put defending state champion Aliquippa back in Class 4A for next season, but that move also affected about two dozen other schools.
Mt. Lebanon senior David Shields named Gatorade Pa. Baseball Player of the Year
Mt. Lebanon senior David Shields, a talented left-handed pitcher and outfielder, was named Monday as the Gatorade Pennsylvania Baseball Player of the Year.
North Allegheny pins PIAA loss on tough Wilson lefty, not ‘WPIAL hangover’
June 3, 2024
North Allegheny coach Andrew Heck could’ve blamed his team’s state playoff loss on the dreaded WPIAL hangover, but instead credited the craftiness of a left-hander who threw a one-hitter.
Olympic hopeful Jordan Geist of Knoch headlines WPIAL Hall of Fame class
June 1, 2024
Jordan Geist, who smashed records as a high school thrower for Knoch’s track team, caught a mid-week flight home from Europe so he could be inducted Friday night into the WPIAL Hall of Fame.
Olympic hopeful Jordan Geist of Knoch headlines WPIAL Hall of Fame class
May 31, 2024
Jordan Geist, who smashed records as a high school thrower for Knoch’s track team, caught a mid-week flight home from Europe so he could be inducted Friday night into the WPIAL Hall of Fame.
PIAA announces 1st round sites, times for 2024 baseball playoffs
Plum and Seneca Valley will host doubleheaders Monday in the first round of the PIAA baseball playoffs.
North Allegheny’s David Posey turns tables, no-hits Mt. Lebanon for WPIAL Class 6A baseball title
May 29, 2024
David Posey wasn’t the starting pitcher drawing no-hit talk before the WPIAL finals, yet the North Allegheny senior walked off the mound at Wild Things Park with a zero on the scoreboard.
2024 WPIAL Class 6A baseball championship preview: Mt. Lebanon vs. North Allegheny
2024 WPIAL Class 6A baseball championship
Avonworth dethrones Riverside in marathon 14-inning WPIAL Class 3A title game
May 28, 2024
A 14-inning game in the WPIAL finals is almost unthinkable, but Avonworth catcher Mason Metz thought the outcome might go down as the biggest surprise from Tuesday night’s marathon.
2024 WPIAL Class 4A baseball championship preview: North Catholic vs. Indiana
2024 WPIAL Class 4A baseball championship
Fort Cherry relay team wins PIAA gold after coming close in football, basketball
May 26, 2024
SHIPPENSBURG — Before the state track championships started, Fort Cherry’s relay team of Dylan Wudkwych, Tegan Henke, Shane Cornali and Matt Sieg got a text from the school’s basketball coach.
Hampton’s Dale Hall golden again, but in a different event, at PIAA meet
SHIPPENSBURG — Hampton’s Dale Hall won a state title in the 800 meters Saturday at the PIAA track championship, a year after winning gold in the 1,600 meters.
Avonworth/Northgate sprinter Hayzes Robinson joins sisters’ tradition with PIAA gold in 100
SHIPPENSBURG — Winning gold medals at Seth Grove Stadium is somewhat of a tradition for the Robinson sisters, one that Hayzes was more than excited to join Saturday.
Butler’s Drew Griffith breaks PIAA championship record in 3,200, but national mark must wait
May 25, 2024
SHIPPENSBURG — Drew Griffith won his second PIAA gold medal and broke a state championship record Saturday, but unlike a day earlier, the Butler star didn’t take a run at any national marks.
Freeport’s Michael Braun adds 2nd state medal to his collection
SHIPPENSBURG — After crossing the finish line at Seth Grove Stadium, distance runners are ushered to the infield turf where they can go in a few different directions.
Cross country champion Jaxon Schoedel of Mohawk adds PIAA title in 3,200 meters
SHIPPENSBURG — Mohawk’s Jaxon Schoedel was stuck in a slow heat for the 1,600 meters a day earlier, but the 3,200 meters had everybody in one big group Saturday.
Pine-Richland pole vaulter Nadia Constantakis uses gymnastics skills to place 2nd at states
SHIPPENSBURG — Lifelong gymnast Nadia Constantakis remembers being a newcomer to the Pine-Richland track team, working out with the sprinters and having a revelation.
Fox Chapel’s Rowan Gwin part of dominant showing for WPIAL in 1,600 at PIAA championships
May 24, 2024
SHIPPENSBURG — Fox Chapel’s Rowan Gwin wasn’t at Seth Grove Stadium last year for the state track championships, but his mind was.Butler’s Drew Griffith breaks national 1,600-meter record at PIAA track championships
SHIPPENSBURG — Butler’s Drew Griffith has won big races all over the country, including a few weeks ago at the iconic Penn Relays, but the Butler star arrived Friday at Seth Grove Stadium having never won there.
Canon-McMillan’s Rose Kuchera looks to end decorated high school career with PIAA gold medal
May 23, 2024
Canon-McMillan’s Rose Kuchera is traveling this week to the state track championships where the senior needs just one more medal to complete her triple jump collection.
Aliquippa football staying in Class 4A after judge issues preliminary injunction against PIAA
Aliquippa will remain in Class 4A football next season, a Beaver County judge ruled Thursday.
WPIAL sets championship, consolation schedule for 2024 baseball playoffs
May 22, 2024
The WPIAL has set its championship and consolation schedule for the baseball playoffs with games May 28-29 in Washington.
Pinch hitter comes through in extra innings to send North Allegheny past Pine-Richland in WPIAL semifinals
North Allegheny’s Michael Hershberger is a hitter always eager for opportunities, said his coach, who called on the junior in a big spot Tuesday night.
Penn-Trafford squeezes past Fox Chapel in another tight game between section rivals
May 20, 2024
After splitting a pair of one-run games in section play, the WPIAL lined up Fox Chapel and Penn-Trafford for a playoff rubber match that was almost as tight.
WPIAL chooses new board president for 2024-25 school year
The WPIAL board ushered in a new group of officers Monday with Peters Township athletic director Brian Geyer selected to serve as president.
North Allegheny to induct decorated class into school’s Athletics Hall of Fame
May 18, 2024
Former WPIAL track standout Ayden Owens-Delerme, a qualifier for this summer’s Olympic Games, was among 13 individuals selected for induction into the North Allegheny Athletics Hall of Fame.
Beaver County judge to decide if Aliquippa football moves to Class 5A or stays in 4A
May 17, 2024
After three days of testimony in a Beaver County courtroom, attorneys for Aliquippa and the PIAA used their closing arguments to paint a contentious competitive-balance rule in drastically different ways.
Distance-running power couple shatters records at WPIAL championships
May 16, 2024
There’s probably not much that makes Butler’s Drew Griffith too nervous at a track meet nowadays, but watching Mt. Lebanon’s Logan St. John Kletter run could be on that list.
After rain halts WPIAL meet, Butler’s Drew Griffith doesn’t mind waiting to make more history
May 15, 2024
Butler’s Drew Griffith ran the 1,600 meters in record time at the WPIAL track and field championships and then waited around for hours as it rained off and on.
PIAA sets 2025-28 state championship sites for basketball, wrestling, swimming
Giant Center in Hershey will continue to host the state basketball and individual wrestling championships for the next four years, and swimming and diving is staying at Bucknell.
No. 12 Shenango credits strength of its section after upset win over No. 5 Valley
Shenango was the underdog on paper as a fourth-place finisher from one section facing the champion of another.
Chartiers Valley ‘checked all of the boxes’ for new boys basketball coach Corey Dotchin
May 14, 2024
Corey Dotchin used to listen to podcasts on his drive to basketball practice, but he won’t have the time anymore.
Sewickley Academy athletes to play football for Moon under co-op agreement
Sewickley Academy students will be playing football for Moon next fall under a plan the private school announced Tuesday.
Chartiers Valley poised to hire Corey Dotchin as boys basketball coach
Former Highlands boys basketball coach Corey Dotchin is poised to take over Chartiers Valley’s program.
Knoch stays patient at plate, rallies past Greensburg Salem in 4A 1st round
May 13, 2024
Staying patient was Knoch’s winning strategy in a playoff opener against Greensburg Salem, especially after falling behind by three runs early.
WPIAL baseball committee seeds 5A bracket by ‘throwing out the numbers,’ focuses on matchups
May 11, 2024
The WPIAL for many decades released playoff brackets that had no seed numbers, a tradition that ended several years ago.
WPIAL releases brackets for 2024 baseball playoffs
Defending champions Mt. Lebanon and Riverside were tabbed as favorites to repeat when the WPIAL on Friday released brackets for the upcoming baseball playoffs.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2024 baseball playoff pairings
May 9, 2024
The 2024 WPIAL baseball playoff field is set with 77 teams, including all six defending champions: Mt. Lebanon, Shaler, Hopewell, Riverside, Seton LaSalle and Bishop Canevin.
Mars, Mt. Lebanon, Shady Side Academy earn No. 1 seeds in 2024 WPIAL lacrosse playoffs
Defending champion Mars, which swept the WPIAL Class 2A lacrosse titles a year ago, will start this season’s playoffs as the No. 1 seed in the boys and girls tournaments.
WPIAL reveals brackets for 2024 softball playoffs
Four defending champions are favored to repeat in the upcoming WPIAL softball playoffs.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast the 2024 softball playoff pairings
May 8, 2024
The 2024 WPIAL softball playoff field is set with 76 teams, including all six defending champions ready to begin playing for gold.
Depth carries North Allegheny girls, Drew Griffith leads Butler boys to WPIAL 3A team titles
May 7, 2024
As a former computer science teacher, North Allegheny coach John Neff built a nifty spreadsheet to keep a running score of the WPIAL team track championship.
Fox Chapel lefty shuts down Plum as 4-way battle for section title rages on
May 6, 2024
Fox Chapel lefty Jeremy Haigh worked fast, threw strikes and sometimes bopped along to Plum’s walkup songs.
WPIAL to hold eligibility hearing for Aliquippa football transfer Jamar Allen
The WPIAL will hold an eligibility hearing for Aliquippa sophomore Jamar Allen, an all-conference football player who transferred there from North Hills.
WPIAL rules Imani Christian basketball’s R.J. Sledge eligible for senior year
Three-time WPIAL and state basketball champion R.J. Sledge of Imani Christian will have a chance to go four for four next winter.
Trib HSSN baseball rankings for May 4, 2024
Class 6A
Deep group of North Allegheny sprinters breaking speed ‘minimums’ this season
There are miles per hour signs posted at North Allegheny track practices, but these aren’t speed limits.
‘Get one day better, every day’: Coach Ed Helbig inspires Baldwin athletes through cancer battle
Baldwin track coach Ed Helbig has a favorite saying that he offers up as motivation to athletes on his team: “Get one day better, every day.”
Pine-Richland celebrates section title with walk-off win over rival North Allegheny
May 3, 2024
Pine-Richland had already left the bases loaded three times, but that’s not what Jake Waddell was thinking about when he came to the plate in seventh.
With focus on staying healthy, Riverside ace Christian Lucarelli works tirelessly on craft
April 29, 2024
Christian Lucarelli arrived at Riverside baseball practice with a clear, plastic sphere that was partially filled with water. The peculiar fitness tool, which has handles on the sides, is designed to strengthen core muscles.
WPIAL cancels eligibility hearings for 2 Aliquippa transfers after Central Valley drops opposition
The WPIAL has canceled eligibility hearings for Aliquippa sophomore Joseph “J.J.” Work and freshman Khalil Ellerbee, saying Central Valley no longer contests their transfers.
Former Bishop Canevin standout Daiveon Taylor, now at Aliquippa, commits to West Virginia
April 27, 2024
Daiveon Taylor wasn’t traveling to Morgantown this weekend just to watch West Virginia’s annual Gold-Blue spring game.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 28, 2024
Class 6A
Trib HSSN softball rankings for April 27, 2024
Class 6A
WPIAL schedules eligibility hearing for Imani Christian all-state basketball player R.J. Sledge
Imani Christian junior R.J. Sledge won his third straight PIAA boys basketball title in March, but his ability to win a fourth next winter is in limbo.
19 WPIAL players picked for 2024 all-state girls basketball team
April 26, 2024
A month after winning a PIAA title, Blackhawk teammates Alena Fusetti and Aubree Hupp were among 19 WPIAL girls basketball players to earn all-state honors Friday.
WPIAL reveals brackets for 2024 team track championships
April 25, 2024
The North Allegheny boys and girls will try to repeat as WPIAL champions when the track and field team playoffs start Tuesday.
North Allegheny, Sewickley Academy earn No. 1 seeds for WPIAL boys team tennis tournament
North Allegheny and Sewickley Academy drew No. 1 seeds for the WPIAL boys team tennis tournament when brackets were released Thursday.
Aliquippa injunction hearing vs. PIAA takes 3-week pause with executive director testifying
April 24, 2024
If the PIAA competitive-balance rule were nullified, “it would probably cause chaos,” the PIAA’s top administrator said Wednesday during testimony in a Beaver County courtroom.
Pirates team doctor Patrick DeMeo among witnesses called by Aliquippa in lawsuit against PIAA
April 23, 2024
Renowned orthopedic surgeon Patrick DeMeo, while testifying for Aliquippa in its lawsuit against the PIAA, said he wanted to see some numbers.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 21, 2024
Class 6A
Earpieces let high school catchers receive in-game coaching
In a stressful moment behind the plate, when the other team was trying to rally, Franklin Regional catcher Ryan Catello started hearing voices in his helmet.
With 2 teams in emerging league, North Allegheny coach encouraged with growth of flag football
Girls flag football was popular in southeastern states when Michelle Ruiz was teaching there earlier in her career, which motivated her to later make it an annual tradition for middle school kids at North Allegheny.
‘Loud and crazy’ invite crowd sees Butler record-setter Drew Griffith nearly run 4-minute mile on his home track
April 19, 2024
In meets from Boston to Los Angeles, record-setting runner Drew Griffith has wowed crowds from coast to coast over the past three months.
Peters Township linebacker Mickey Vaccarello commits to Stanford
April 17, 2024
Just days after taking a recruiting trip to the West Coast, Peters Township’s Mickey Vaccarello decided to spend his college years in California.
WPIAL notebook: Girls flag football tops 100-team threshold, on road to being PIAA sport
Girls flag football is on track to become the next sanctioned high school sport in Pennsylvania.
WPIAL to hold hearings for 2 Aliquippa football transfers, approves 3 others
A WPIAL hearing will decide the eligibility of two Aliquippa football players who transferred from rival Central Valley.
Pine-Richland senior delivers walk-off hit in 1st at-bat of season in win over Seneca Valley
April 16, 2024
A shoulder injury kept Tommy Zimmerman in the dugout for his team’s first 10 games, but the Pine-Richland senior finally got to bat Tuesday.
Corey Dotchin steps down as Highlands boys basketball coach
April 15, 2024
With his first child on the way, Corey Dotchin decided that a daily commute to Natrona Heights wouldn’t work anymore for him and his growing family.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 14, 2024
Class 6A
Versatility, commitment let Izzy Costa shine in multiple events for North Allegheny track
North Allegheny’s Izzy Costa had an upset stomach but was still was warming up for the long jump after running the 100 and 400 meters in a dual meet at Butler.
PIAA taking bids to host basketball championships
April 12, 2024
Giant Center in Hershey has hosted the state high school basketball finals for more than a decade, but could or should the PIAA championships go elsewhere?
Basketball coach Rob Niederberger, who lifted Shaler from last place to WPIAL contender, resigns
When Shaler hired Rob Niederberger as boys basketball coach nine years ago, he took over a team mired in last place. He resigned Thursday knowing the next coach will inherit a program that’s in a much better position.
Robert Morris hires Oakland Catholic’s Eddie Benton as assistant women’s basketball coach
April 9, 2024
Oakland Catholic girls basketball coach Eddie Benton, who led the Eagles to consecutive section titles, is leaving for a job at Robert Morris.
PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi on public vs. private debate: ‘We have a ‘school’ problem’
While watching private and charter schools again flourish in the state basketball finals, the PIAA’s top administrator said there is a problem, but it’s not what public school advocates might think.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 7, 2024
Class 6A
North Allegheny’s depth on display in quest to regain WPIAL boys volleyball title
Opponents may have a dozen or so players in uniform for varsity matches, but North Allegheny boys volleyball coach Dan Long plans to use twice that many.
Here’s a new one for WPIAL athletic directors: Game called on account of solar eclipse
April 4, 2024
Athletic directors are not surprised when rain or snow wreaks havoc on spring sports schedules. But there’s another act of nature — one far more infrequent — that has WPIAL schools rescheduling games slated for Monday.
2024 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball All-Stars
Terrific 10
North Catholic’s Alayna Rocco named 2024 TribLive HSSN Girls Basketball Player of the Year
April 1, 2024
There was a time when a basketball gym was the last place Alayna Rocco wanted to be. As a coach’s daughter, she went anyway.
Lincoln Park’s Brandin Cummings, Meleek Thomas named 2024 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball Players of the Year
Brandin Cummings and Meleek Thomas form a dynamic duo for Lincoln Park’s boys basketball team, but they aren’t quite Batman and Robin.
TribLive H.S. baseball rankings for March 30, 2024
Class 6A
Behind ‘softball sisters,’ North Allegheny hopes to return to WPIAL finals
North Allegheny has a roster full of “softball sisters,” even though most of the girls aren’t actually related.
Aliquippa sues PIAA to prevent football team’s promotion to Class 5A
March 28, 2024
The school with the most wins in WPIAL football history is hoping its next big victory comes in a courtroom.
Blackhawk finds redemption in Hershey, wins PIAA girls basketball title with 1st-year coach
March 23, 2024
HERSHEY — Greg Huston wasn’t on the bench last March when Blackhawk lost in the state finals, but he understood the team’s heartache as well as anybody. He was here a dad watching his daughter from the Giant Center seats.
After winning state football title last fall, Aliquippa adds PIAA boys basketball championship
March 22, 2024
HERSHEY – Aliquippa finished off a rare PIAA double-double Friday by winning state football and basketball titles in the same school year. But on a roster full of two-sport athletes, this latest celebration was thanks in large part to a sophomore who has focused on only one.
PIAA Class 4A girls basketball championship preview: Blackhawk vs. Scranton Prep
PIAA Class 4A girls basketball championship
Behind Brandin Cummings’ ‘storybook ending,’ Lincoln Park repeats as PIAA Class 4A champ
March 21, 2024
HERSHEY — Brandin Cummings patiently held for the last shot of the first half, but the Lincoln Park senior didn’t wait around to see if his 3-pointer was good. He’d already turned his back on the shot and was headed toward the Giant Center locker room.
PIAA Class 2A boys basketball championship preview: Aliquippa vs. Holy Cross
PIAA Class 2A boys basketball championship
PIAA reveals brackets for 2024-25 football playoffs, likely altering WPIAL schedule at Acrisure Stadium
The four WPIAL football finals played at Acrisure Stadium likely will change this fall.
Imani Christian says goodbye to Class A with rout of Berlin Brothersvalley, 2nd straight PIAA title
HERSHEY — Imani Christian won a state title a year ago with a towering center in the middle, but this time, a couple of much smaller guards led the way.
PIAA Class 4A boys basketball championship preview: Lincoln Park vs. Archbishop Carroll
March 20, 2024
Lincoln Park is making a return trip to Hershey, where the team hopes to celebrate a second straight state title behind the talented tandem of Brandin Cummings and Meleek Thomas.
Franklin Regional gets revenge on Moon in PIAA Class 5A semifinals
March 18, 2024
Franklin Regional built a big lead Monday night only to see Moon erase it entirely, which was reminiscent of how the Panthers lost in the WPIAL final a few weeks ago.
Deer Lakes’ long run of playoff success ends with loss to Franklin
March 16, 2024
SHARON — Time was dwindling away and the deficit was large, but Deer Lakes decided to ramp up its pressure one more time in Saturday’s state playoff loss.
‘Plethora of arms’ makes North Allegheny baseball a team to reckon with
Some WPIAL baseball teams scramble to find enough pitching to cover their innings, but North Allegheny coach Andrew Heck has a much different dilemma. He’s hoping to find enough innings for all of his pitchers.
Moon outlasts Bethel Park, sets up WPIAL finals rematch in state semifinals
Yes, these are the state playoffs, but WPIAL champion Moon is back fighting its way through teams from its own league.
WPIAL releases football schedules for 2024, ’25 seasons
March 14, 2024
The WPIAL has released its football schedules for the next two seasons and Week 1 should be exciting.
Upper St. Clair embraces the madness, avenges loss to State College
March 13, 2024
JOHNSTOWN — This is the kind of March madness Upper St. Clair coach Danny Holzer likes most, a state basketball tournament where his Panthers are making a deep bracket run.
After injury to leading scorer, Shaler pulls together for PIAA win over Mechanicsburg
ALTOONA — Shaler leading scorer Keegan Smetanka was down on the court with a first-quarter ankle injury, so his teammates huddled quickly to discuss what to do next.
Colin Masten gets to rim, helps Franklin Regional to PIAA 5A quarterfinals
March 12, 2024
ALTOONA — Colin Masten wears jersey No. 1, which was fitting Tuesday night because of how many times he made folks say, “And one!”
When WPIAL makes realignment decisions aiming for competitive balance, critics emerge
WPIAL athletic directors received a survey from one of their colleagues Monday, seeking feedback about how the league makes its sections and schedules.
Butler senior Drew Griffith breaks national indoor high school track record in 2-mile
March 10, 2024
This time it counts.
Untimely scoring slumps end Baldwin’s historic season with PIAA loss to McDowell
March 9, 2024
The scoreboard in Baldwin’s gym showed a good news, bad news scenario for the Highlanders as the fourth quarter got underway Saturday.
Lincoln Park’s Brandin Cummings scores 28, says goodbye to beloved home court in PIAA win
Brandin Cummings kissed his hand before touching the Leopard logo on Lincoln Park’s basketball court, offering a kiss goodbye as his final home game was winding down.
Upper St. Clair ends Baldwin’s WPIAL run with resounding victory in Class 6A final
March 2, 2024
“Let’s go dance,” Upper St. Clair coach Danny Holzer told his players, guiding them back to their Petersen Events Center locker room where they bounced and sang along to “Y-M-C-A.”
North Allegheny divers follow different routes to WPIAL success
A gymnastics background can certainly help, but North Allegheny diving coach Patti McClure says she’s first looking for a kid with a “kamikaze” attitude.
Moon rallies past Franklin Regional to secure 5th WPIAL boys basketball title
March 1, 2024
One team got hot in the fourth quarter, and the other was not.
2024 WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball championship breakdown: Upper St. Clair vs. Baldwin
WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball championship
Butler AD: Agreement with PIAA will let football team play independent schedule
Butler has reached an agreement with the PIAA that will let the football team play an independent schedule this fall, the school’s athletic director said Friday.
Defensive-focused Lincoln Park beats Hampton to repeat as WPIAL champs
February 29, 2024
The WPIAL knows Meleek Thomas best as an elite scorer for the league’s highest-scoring team, a combination that brought Lincoln Park to Petersen Events Center on Thursday night.
2024 WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship breakdown: Lincoln Park vs. Hampton
WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship
2024 WPIAL Class A boys basketball championship breakdown: Imani Christian vs. Neighborhood Academy
WPIAL Class A boys basketball championship
PIAA defends Aliquippa decision in letter to legislators; state Rep. Matzie sees ‘hit job’
February 28, 2024
The PIAA in a letter to state legislators stood behind its decision to move the Aliquippa football team into a higher classification and rejected claims that the school district serves a more transient population than others.
Big man’s big game boosts Upper St. Clair past Central Catholic into WPIAL finals
February 27, 2024
Tyler Robbins’ first basket came a few minutes after halftime, but Upper St. Clair’s big man had already altered the outcome of Tuesday’s semifinal in other ways.
Deer Lakes boys defeat Neshannock in OT, advance to WPIAL Class 3A title game
February 26, 2024
The path wasn’t easy, but defending champion Deer Lakes is headed back to the WPIAL boys basketball finals after a second straight overtime win.
WPIAL sets schedule for basketball finals at Petersen Events Center
February 25, 2024
The WPIAL has finalized the championship schedule for the boys and girls basketball playoffs with dates and times for each of the 12 finals.
Hampton cools off Avonworth’s red-hot scorer for spot in WPIAL 4A final
February 24, 2024
Hampton’s Peter Kramer has faced his share of unorthodox defenses over the years, schemes designed specifically to shut him down as a scorer.
Defending champion Lincoln Park holds off Uniontown for return trip to WPIAL finals
Uniontown had a couple of good looks at a go-ahead 3-pointer early in the fourth quarter and had possession of the ball down three with only a minute left.
Nearly a national record holder, Butler’s Drew Griffith running the best he ever has
Drew Griffith ran two miles in a historic time, faster than the all-time indoor best for high school boys, but the Butler senior’s name won’t appear in any national record book.
Baldwin celebrates 1st WPIAL playoff win in 21 years with victory over North Allegheny
Baldwin boys basketball coach Jeff Ackermann took his team to look at the school’s trophy case before Friday night’s playoff game.
PSFCA announces rosters for 2024 East-West all-star football games
February 23, 2024
Forty WPIAL and City League football players were selected Friday to take part in a pair of East-West all-star games organized by the Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association.
WPIAL sets playoff sites, times for Monday’s basketball semifinals
The WPIAL has scheduled four semifinal doubleheaders in the basketball playoffs on Monday. The games are for Class 6A girls, 5A boys, 3A boys and A girls.
Shaler pulls out low-scoring win over Bethel Park with 1 basket in 4th quarter
The numbers on the scoreboard sure seemed to be stuck.
WPIAL sets playoff sites, times for Saturday’s basketball semifinals
February 22, 2024
The WPIAL has scheduled four basketball semifinal doubleheaders Saturday at Montour, Mt. Lebanon, North Allegheny and Peters Township.
Short-handed Uniontown gets defensive in WPIAL quarterfinal win over North Catholic
Uniontown was missing its big man in the middle, but against a small, speedy opponent, was that a blessing in disguise?
8 WPIAL all-stars selected for 67th annual Big 33 Football Classic
February 21, 2024
Eight WPIAL football players were among the 38 high school all-stars selected Wednesday to represent Pennsylvania in the 67th annual Big 33 Football Classic.
WPIAL announces playoff sites, times for Friday’s basketball quarterfinals
Fox Chapel, Highlands, Mt. Lebanon, North Allegheny and Peters Township will host doubleheaders for Friday’s quarterfinal games in the WPIAL basketball playoffs.
After taking job just last month, coach sets big goals for Bishop Canevin
Aaron McGee gave away some of his Bishop Canevin gear when he left for an assistant coaching job at Moon, but fortunately he held onto some shirts.
WPIAL announces playoff sites, times for Thursday’s basketball quarterfinals
February 20, 2024
The WPIAL released sites and times for Thursday’s boys and girls basketball quarterfinals.
Brandon Sensor resigns as Chartiers Valley boys basketball coach, citing lack of support from administration
Chartiers Valley boys basketball coach Brandon Sensor, who missed the final six weeks of the season on administrative leave, resigned Tuesday.
WPIAL reveals Aliquippa’s 5A conference, but football coach says ‘it’s not settled’
The WPIAL revealed an updated football alignment Monday that has Aliquippa sharing a Class 5A conference with Fox Chapel, North Hills, Penn Hills, Pine-Richland, Plum and Shaler.
WPIAL says Butler football must take conference schedule, reviving years-long dispute
A seemingly settled dispute between Butler and the PIAA was rekindled Monday when the WPIAL said the school’s football team must play a conference schedule next fall.
WPIAL sets conference, section alignment for next 2 fall seasons
February 19, 2024
The WPIAL wanted more competitive balance in its conferences and sections, so some teams might have a longer drive next season as a result.
WPIAL announces playoff sites, times for Wednesday’s basketball quarterfinals
February 18, 2024
The WPIAL has scheduled a slate of quarterfinal doubleheaders for Wednesday in the next round of the basketball playoffs.
North Allegheny boys put layoff to good use ahead of WPIAL playoffs
February 17, 2024
When other WPIAL basketball teams were probably prepping for their playoff openers, the North Allegheny boys took batting practice in the high school gym.
Rowan Carmichael’s 32 points lift Avonworth past Highlands in Class 4A 1st round
February 16, 2024
Highlands’ size can be an advantage, just not against a deceptively sturdy guard who made one big shot after another.
WPIAL playoff berth means a lot to Hillel Academy, a tiny Orthodox Jewish school in Squirrel Hill
February 14, 2024
As the boys basketball coach at Hillel Academy, Yoni Eglash has fielded a number of questions since his team joined the WPIAL two years ago.
Breaking down the 2024 WPIAL boys basketball playoff brackets
February 12, 2024
Class 6A
Mt. Lebanon hires football coach Greg Perry, former coach at Seton LaSalle, Keystone Oaks
Football coach Greg Perry has a new head coaching job that’s just down the road from his previous two.
WPIAL releases brackets for 2024 boys and girls basketball playoffs
When the WPIAL basketball committee met Monday morning to seed the playoff brackets, there was little debate about the No. 1 seeds.
WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel forecast the 2024 boys basketball playoff pairings
February 10, 2024
The 2024 WPIAL boys basketball playoff field is set with 87 teams in the six classifications.
TribLive HSSN WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 11, 2024
WPIAL girls basketball rankings
TribLive HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 11, 2024
WPIAL boys basketball rankings
‘The real deal’: North Allegheny set to host 1st WPIAL girls wrestling championships
North Allegheny will play host to a Western Pennsylvania girls wrestling championship once again, but this time the medals will says “WPIAL.”
Central Catholic grabs section title away from North Allegheny with last-second 3-point play
February 9, 2024
Central Catholic had trailed for almost the entire game, but a layup and foul shot by sophomore Enzo Khalil with seven-tenths of a second left Friday night lifted the Vikings to a dramatic 58-57 victory over North Allegheny to win the section title.
Central Catholic wide receiver Peter Gonzalez receives NFL Latino Youth Honors award
This is awards season for the NFL, and one went to a high school senior from the WPIAL. Central Catholic’s Peter Gonzalez received an inaugural honor that recognized his football talents and his Hispanic heritage.
Imani Christian 4-star junior Dayshaun Burnett makes verbal commitment to Penn State
February 7, 2024
Dayshaun Burnett received his first college offer from Penn State almost two years ago, but the Imani Christian junior had a Nittany Lions connection that went back way further.
Central Catholic wins black-and-blue battle with Butler
There were two separate stoppages to clean blood off the court at Central Catholic’s Alumni Hall on Tuesday night, showing just how rough a section game between Central and Butler can get.
WPIAL to release new football conferences, updated sections for other fall sports
February 5, 2024
The wait is almost over for WPIAL football teams eager to take a look at the new conferences for the 2024 and ’25 seasons.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending February 4, 2024
February 3, 2024
WPIAL boys basketball rankings
Trib HSSN girls basketball rankings for Feb. 3, 2024
WPIAL girls basketball rankings
‘Excellence has to be earned’: North Allegheny swimmers aim to maintain streak of WPIAL championships
The North Allegheny swimming team owns a WPIAL championship streak that’s older than some kids on the roster.
Mt. Lebanon stakes claim in 6A with win over rival Upper St. Clair
Packed together tightly in a sold-out gym, the Mt. Lebanon student section chanted, “We run 6A,” in the final minutes of Friday’s win over rival Upper St. Clair.
Exquisite timing helps Shaler avenge loss to Woodland Hills
January 31, 2024
“Exquisite” was the fancy word Brandon London’s teammates urged him to work into his postgame interview.
Bishop Canevin fires 1st-place boys basketball coach in middle of his 1st season
January 29, 2024
The Bishop Canevin boys basketball team is close to clinching a section title, but the Crusaders will finish their season with a different coaching staff.
Aliquippa grad, current 5A coach understands Quips’ concerns with bump up in class
January 28, 2024
Can Aliquippa compete in Class 5A football? Yes, says Pine-Richland coach Jon LeDonne, but he also considers the Quips’ concerns about player health to be valid.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 28, 2024
January 27, 2024
WPIAL girls basketball rankings
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 28, 2024
WPIAL boys basketball rankings
Lincoln Park’s ‘big two’ share the wealth in win over North Catholic
The motto on Lincoln Park’s shirts says “one more,” which coach Mike Bariski translates into “one more pass.”
PIAA officials acknowledge competitive balance formula has ‘room for conversation’ in future
January 26, 2024
A football team that reaches the state finals or semifinals two years in a row “is the cream of the crop in that class,” said PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi, explaining why health and safety concerns are excluded as grounds for appeal under the competitive-balance rule.
6 WPIAL quarterbacks selected as finalists for Willie Thrower Award
January 25, 2024
WPIAL champions Nolan DiLucia of Peters Township, Logan Kushner of North Allegheny and Matt Seig of Fort Cherry were three of the six quarterbacks named Thursday as finalists for the Willie Thrower Award.
PIAA rejects Farrell’s request to join WPIAL
January 24, 2024
A week after the WPIAL rejected Farrell’s attempt to join the district, the PIAA also denied the Mercer County school’s request to transfer to the WPIAL.
Aliquippa forced to move to Class 5A football after PIAA rejects appeal
MECHANICSBURG — If the PIAA believes five transfers gave the Aliquippa football team a competitive advantage, Quips coach Mike Warfield wants to know how.
New coach Marty Spieler brings unique resume, complete with a Kelce tie, to South Fayette
January 23, 2024
The coaching career of Marty Spieler once crossed paths with the Kelce brothers, but, no, Taylor Swift probably won’t show up at South Fayette games this fall.
Gatorade picks Mt. Lebanon’s Logan St. John Kletter as top girls cross country runner in Pa.
Reigning state champion Logan St. John Kletter of Mt. Lebanon was named the Gatorade Pennsylvania girls cross country athlete of the year, extending the WPIAL’s winning streak to four.
South Fayette poised to hire Marty Spieler as football coach
January 22, 2024
South Fayette is prepared to make Marty Spieler the school’s next football coach, pending board approval Tuesday night.
PIAA discussing eliminating overtime in regular-season soccer games
January 21, 2024
The PIAA might decide this week to eliminate overtime from regular-season high school soccer, taking a nod from NCAA rules and international norms. If approved, regular-season games tied after regulation would finish as a draw.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 21, 2024
January 20, 2024
WPIAL girls basketball rankings
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending January 21, 2024
WPIAL boys basketball rankings
Thought to be moving up to 3A for next 2 years, Westinghouse will instead play Class A football
January 18, 2024
City League champion Westinghouse is dropping to Class A football next season after successfully avoiding a promotion under the PIAA competitive-balance rule.
Aliquippa football still ticketed for 5A after unsuccessful initial appeal to PIAA
January 17, 2024
Aliquippa’s initial appeal to the PIAA was unsuccessful, so the football team remains headed to a higher classification under the competitive-balance rule.
Former Clairton football star Tyler Boyd headlines 2024 WPIAL Hall of Fame class
Nobody in WPIAL history won more consistently than Clairton’s Tyler Boyd, whose football teams were part of a state-record winning streak that eventually reached 66 games.
WPIAL places Mohawk football on 2 years of probation for alleged racial slurs toward Burrell players
January 16, 2024
The WPIAL has placed the Mohawk football team on probation for two years after allegations that racial slurs were used in a playoff game against Burrell in November.
WPIAL board unanimously rejects Farrell’s request to rejoin district
The WPIAL board voted unanimously Tuesday to deny Farrell’s request to join the league as a member school, citing the cost of transportation and tight athletic department budgets.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 14, 2024
January 13, 2024
WPIAL girls basketball rankings
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 14, 2024
WPIAL boys basketball rankings
North Allegheny girls hope January road trips make Tigers a tough ‘out’ later this season
No, the North Allegheny girls basketball team hasn’t left the WPIAL, even though its schedule certainly looks like the Tigers moved closer to Harrisburg.
Avonworth sheds underdog label with section-shaking win over No. 3 Montour
In a pregame talk with his players, Avonworth basketball coach Mike Mancuso embraced the idea that the WPIAL saw them as underdogs in their own section.
Butler won’t rejoin WPIAL football; decision nearing on Farrell’s request to return
January 12, 2024
How many football teams will the WPIAL have next season? That number continues to fluctuate.
North Allegheny linebacker Tyree Alualu commits to Temple
North Allegheny senior Tyree Alualu, an all-conference linebacker whose father played for the Pittsburgh Steelers, committed Thursday to Temple.
Even at the high school level, football coaches take measures to avoid signs being stolen
January 7, 2024
There was a commotion in the bleachers at a WPIAL football game one night when some opposing coaches had their notes fall from the press box window.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending January 7, 2024
Class 6A
Barrage of 3-pointers — including 8 by Donovan Carney — leads Butler past New Castle
January 5, 2024
Butler’s Donovan Carney was making shots from far beyond the arc, teammate Tayt Lucas hit a couple of 3-pointers and Kyle Casteel came off the bench shooting 3s with no hesitation.
PIAA policy won’t let Aliquippa argue health and safety in rejecting move to Class 5A
Two years ago, Aliquippa argued relentlessly that it was too dangerous to force the small-school Quips to play Class 5A football and ultimately the school won its PIAA appeal.
State representative asks whether PIAA needs ‘overhaul,’ proposes legislation to investigate
A Western Pennsylvania legislator and longtime member of the state Athletic Oversight Committee is asking whether the PIAA needs an overhaul.
Wild Things Park to host WPIAL baseball finals through 2027
Wild Things Park will remain as host of the WPIAL baseball finals through at least the 2027 season.
McGuffey football coach Ed Dalton resigns after 12 years, not ready for retirement
January 4, 2024
Ed Dalton is stepping down after 12 seasons as McGuffey’s football coach, but don’t mistake his resignation as an early retirement.
PIAA plans to move Aliquippa football to Class 5A under competitive-balance rule
In a move coach Mike Warfield called déjà vu, the PIAA has notified Aliquippa that its football team will be forced up another classification before next season.
East Allegheny football coach Dom Pecora resigns after 8 straight playoff appearances
January 3, 2024
Winning a conference title and reaching the WPIAL semifinals will always be two of the happiest moments of his life, says East Allegheny football coach Dom Pecora, who is stepping down after 11 seasons with the Wildcats.
Fast start leads Hampton past Highlands in key section clash
January 2, 2024
Sometimes games are decided by a fourth-quarter run, but Hampton showed Tuesday that the first few minutes can be just as crucial.
Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings for Dec. 30, 2023
Class 6A
Mike Collodi resigns as Mt. Lebanon football coach after 1 season
December 27, 2023
Less than a year after becoming Mt. Lebanon’s football coach, Mike Collodi is reluctantly stepping down. He resigned Wednesday after one season, largely, he said, because he saw no path to a teaching job in the district.
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Class 6A
WPIAL Class 6A
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Western Hills
Western Hills Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Tri-County South
Tri-County South Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Parkway
Parkway Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Northeast
Northeast Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Midwestern
Midwestern Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Interstate
Interstate Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Greater Allegheny
Greater Allegheny Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Eastern
Eastern Conference
2023 All-City League Football Team
Pittsburgh City League
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Century
Century Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Black Hills
Black Hills Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Big Seven
Big Seven Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Big East
Big East Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Big 7
Big 7 Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Allegheny Six
Allegheny Six
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Allegheny 6
Allegheny 6 Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Allegheny
Allegheny Conference
WPIAL girls basketball rankings for week ending Dec. 24, 2023
December 23, 2023
Class 6A
WPIAL boys basketball rankings for the week ending Dec. 24, 2023
Class 6A
Central Catholic’s Xxavier Thomas gets offer he ‘always wanted,’ commits to Penn State
December 21, 2023
Xxavier Thomas says he was ready to commit to Penn State since visiting the campus a year ago, but the Central Catholic junior first needed an offer from the Nittany Lions.
Western Pa.’s top football prospects for the Class of 2025
December 20, 2023
For college coaches recruiting the WPIAL, linebacker has become a position of strength.
2023 TribLive HSSN Terrific 25 Football All-Stars
Here’s a look at the TribLive High School Sports Network’s Terrific 25 football all-stars for the 2023 season.
Early signing day for 2024: WPIAL football players announce Division I commitments
High school football recruits used to have to wait until February to sign a national letter of intent, but that changed starting in 2017, when the NCAA added an early signing period for Division I football.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 17, 2023
Class 6A
Just like Revis, state champion Aliquippa football players try to transition quickly to hoops
December 15, 2023
Aliquippa basketball coach Nick Lackovich, with a laugh, pointed out that sophomore Qalil Goode was doing his best Darrelle Revis impression.
District 10 grants Farrell’s release request, moving school closer to WPIAL return
December 13, 2023
The District 10 committee has granted Farrell’s request to leave that PIAA district, moving the Mercer County school one step closer to rejoining the WPIAL.
PIAA football championship notebook: Despite criticism, St. Joseph’s Prep coach proud of powerhouse team’s achievements
December 11, 2023
St. Joseph’s Prep football has dominated the state’s largest classification for over a decade, and the Philadelphia team’s coach isn’t about to apologize for the school’s success.
North Allegheny loses to defending champ St. Joseph’s Prep in mercy rule state final
December 9, 2023
MECHANICSBURG — In the 11 years since North Allegheny last reached the PIAA finals, the landscape in the state’s largest classification has shifted to the east.
North Allegheny embraces ‘who we are’ entering state championship clash with St. Joseph’s Prep
The team North Allegheny thought most about this week, the roster of players the Tigers maybe focused on more than any other, was North Allegheny.
Imhotep Charter too much for Peters Township in Class 5A state championship game
December 8, 2023
MECHANICSBURG — Peters Township’s defense had to tackle a running back headed to Georgia, a sophomore back with SEC offers and a freshman wideout already courted by Pitt and Penn State.
Southern Columbia’s 99-yard drive dashes Westinghouse’s state championship hopes
MECHANICSBURG — It was heartache again for the ‘House.
Aliquippa dominates Dallas to become school’s 1st undefeated state championship team
December 7, 2023
MECHANICSBURG — Not Ty Law. Not Darrelle Revis. None of the all-time greats in Aliquippa history had ever celebrated an undefeated state championship. That perfect ending had eluded the Quips five times before, including just a year ago here at Cumberland Valley.
PIAA will let Woodland Hills, Charleroi fix enrollment mistakes, avoid promotion to higher classifications
December 6, 2023
The PIAA will let Woodland Hills and Charleroi fix mistakes the schools made when submitting their enrollments, errors that would’ve forced their teams into higher classifications.
Not concerned with any curse, bad luck or superstitions, Aliquippa aims to cap undefeated season with PIAA title
Aliquippa has an imperfect history in the state football finals that’s hard to explain.
Imani Christian basketball moving to 6A in 2024, football also playing up
December 4, 2023
Imani Christian is one of the smallest schools in WPIAL basketball, but the Saints want to compete with the big boys.
North Allegheny ends 11-year wait, moves on to state finals vs. powerhouse St. Joseph’s Prep
December 2, 2023
ALTOONA — North Allegheny is headed to the PIAA finals for the first time since 2012, and waiting for the Tigers will be a team that’s dominated the state for the past decade.
Aliquippa secures 3rd straight state finals appearance with win over Selinsgrove
December 1, 2023
EBENSBURG — There was some fourth-quarter suspense for Aliquippa as the final minutes ticked away in the state semifinal Friday night.
Unheralded QB runs his family’s business — Aliquippa’s offense — with championship efficiency
November 30, 2023
In a jubilant locker room where the players were even louder than the cranked-up music, Aliquippa quarterback Quentin Goode paused to think about the WPIAL football title he’d just won and why it felt different than his first two.
PIAA releases updated enrollments, classifications for 2024-25, 2025-26 seasons
November 28, 2023
The PIAA has released updated enrollment numbers for all sports, giving high school teams their first look at classifications for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons.
Potential enrollment error has Woodland Hills moving to WPIAL 6A football
Woodland Hills may have misreported its enrollment numbers to the PIAA, causing its sports teams to jump into higher classifications starting next year.
20 times tough: Aliquippa handles McKeesport to add to record total of WPIAL championships
November 24, 2023
Cameron Lindsey could sum up Aliquippa’s night in just a few words: “Three for three.”
In 16th straight WPIAL title game appearance, Aliquippa to meet worthy adversary in McKeesport
November 22, 2023
As a first-year coach, Matt Miller led McKeesport to the 2016 WPIAL finals, a rapid ascent that maybe skewed his perception of the playoffs.
No guarantee WPIAL welcomes back Farrell, if District 10 approves school’s transfer
November 20, 2023
Farrell wants to come back to the WPIAL after almost two decades in District 10, but a potential homecoming for the Steelers is no guarantee.
WPIAL continues investigation of racial slurs in Mohawk-Burrell football game
The WPIAL investigation is ongoing into allegations that racial slurs were used in a Burrell-Mohawk football game.
With 6 TDs, North Allegheny QB Logan Kushner shines brightest in WPIAL title win over Central Catholic
November 18, 2023
“Best player on the field” was how North Allegheny coach Art Walker described his quarterback Logan Kushner.
Aliquippa headed ‘home’ to WPIAL finals, extending championship game streak to 16 years
Whether the stadium on the North Shore is called Heinz Field or Acrisure Stadium doesn’t much matter to Aliquippa’s football players, since they have their own nickname for it.
Offense steps to forefront when Central Catholic, North Allegheny meet again for Class 6A title
November 17, 2023
The traditional style of a Central Catholic vs. North Allegheny game was always defined by the defenses. Just a year ago, they combined for a 7-3 score in a field-position battle.
Peters Township eyes 1st WPIAL title, but defending champion Pine-Richland stands in the way
This was just another week of practice for Peters Township’s football team, exactly like any of the others the Indians had this season.
5 things to watch: WPIAL playoff weekend split between finals, semifinals
November 16, 2023
Pine-Richland will eat breakfast together a few hours before kickoff, part of a pregame routine Saturday that differs from most weeks.
4 WPIAL football championships will be televised with support from Steelers
November 14, 2023
The four WPIAL football championship games held at Acrisure Stadium will be televised this year, thanks to support from the Pittsburgh Steelers, the WPIAL announced Tuesday.
Coaches association names 2023 WPIAL field hockey all-stars
November 13, 2023
The WPIAL Field Hockey Coaches Association announced postseason honors Monday, including all-stars for each classification and a 24-person all-WPIAL team.
Farrell wants to rejoin WPIAL after nearly 2 decades in District 10
Farrell athletic director and football coach Anthony Pegues calls himself “a WPIAL guy,” since the Steelers played here in the WPIAL when he was on the team.
5 things we learned in Week 11 of the WPIAL football season: Semifinals feature new blood
November 11, 2023
Some teams are penciled into the semifinals before the WPIAL playoffs even start. Aliquippa, after winning Friday, will make its 17th straight appearance in the final four.
WPIAL announces playoff sites for football semifinals
WPIAL football playoffs
Touchdown with 2 seconds left sends defending champ Pine-Richland back to WPIAL finals
November 10, 2023
Pine-Richland was two seconds away from a season-ending loss when freshman Aaron “Oobi” Strader narrowly crossed the goal line on a touchdown run that has the defending champion headed back to the WPIAL finals.
5 things to watch in WPIAL Week 11: Regular season rematches dominate playoff schedule
About two months ago, Penn Hills coach Charles Morris made a prediction before he left the field at Pine-Richland’s stadium.
WPIAL Equity Council to review Burrell’s allegations that Mohawk football players used racist remarks
November 9, 2023
The WPIAL will have a role in resolving the dispute between Burrell and Mohawk, whose football teams played a game marred by allegations of racial slurs.
WPIAL allowing Burrell, Mohawk to settle racist taunts dispute
November 8, 2023
The WPIAL is hopeful Mohawk and Burrell can resolve allegations of racial taunts involving their football teams without the league’s intervention.
Judge grants Jonna Burke preliminary injunction letting basketball coach avoid PIAA suspension
A federal judge has granted Jonna Burke’s request for a preliminary injunction, a legal victory that lets the Shady Side Academy girls basketball coach avoid a PIAA suspension for now.
Burrell football coach says playoff opponent used racial slurs, his protest led to ejection
November 5, 2023
Burrell football coach Shawn Liotta said his players were targeted with racial slurs in a game Friday against Mohawk and that he was ejected after confronting game officials about it.
North Allegheny trying to make most of calm before the playoff storm
The North Allegheny football team didn’t have a game in the first week of the playoffs, but that doesn’t mean the Tigers took a week off.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 10: Wildcat formation works for WPIAL teams
November 4, 2023
The wildcat formation is almost as old as WPIAL football itself, but the run-oriented offense is proving hard to stop.
WPIAL announces sites, times for Friday’s football playoff games
WPIAL football playoffs
No. 5 Moon thwarts final drive, runs past Gateway in WPIAL 5A quarterfinals
Moon ran the football almost 70 times Friday night, and Gateway coach Don Holl marveled that not once were the Tigers flagged for holding.
WPIAL rules North Catholic baseball player ineligible after transfer
November 2, 2023
The WPIAL ruled North Catholic junior Jake McKee ineligible for the upcoming baseball season after transferring from New Brighton.
5 things to watch in WPIAL Week 10: Run vs. pass option to decide Class 5A playoff openers
The run-pass option is a staple for offenses nowadays and this year’s WPIAL Class 5A bracket is one big RPO.
2-time state champion Joe Rossi resigns as South Fayette football coach
November 1, 2023
Joe Rossi says his wife, Karley, should teach a course for coaches’ wives. The Rossis have four kids, they’re all involved in sports, and he was often busy as South Fayette’s football coach.
WPIAL adding teams to Class 6A football; PIAA releases enrollment parameters for next 2 school years
October 31, 2023
The WPIAL will have more Class 6A football teams next season with Hempfield and Norwin set to join the league’s big-school classification.
Hopewell football coach Matt Weiss resigns after 5 seasons
Hopewell football coach Matt Weiss resigned Monday after five seasons with the Vikings, a program that has struggled significantly for more than a decade.
WPIAL shows love for traditionally tough Parkway, gives home games to 4 teams
October 29, 2023
West Allegheny’s football team rode on a bus for more than an hour a year ago when the Indians opened the WPIAL playoffs in Fayette County.
Breaking down the WPIAL football playoffs: Favorites, challengers, predictions
October 28, 2023
Favorite: Central Catholic reached the WPIAL finals in nine of the past 10 seasons, winning five titles in that span. This year’s team outscored conference opponents 190-35, led by senior QB Payton Wehner (2,300 yards, 31 TDs). WR Peter Gonzalez (Penn State), LB/TE Cole Sullivan (Wisconsin) and LB Anthony Speca (Penn State) are all Big Ten recruits. First-year coach Ryan Lehmeier won WPIAL titles as a Pine-Richland assistant.
Trib HSSN high school football rankings, Week ending Oct. 29, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
WPIAL reveals pairings for 2023 football playoffs
Neshannock is already the Midwestern Conference champion, but to reach the WPIAL finals the Lancers will need to win the Century Conference, too.
North Allegheny plans ‘Learn to Row’ event to teach students, prospective team members
Bailey Chick wasn’t someone who grew up rowing, and in fact didn’t try the sport until she was a college student at Temple. But one day the rowing team there was inviting novices to practice, so she went and gave it a try.
Final WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2023 football playoff pairings
Let the guesswork begin.
Aliquippa uses 1-play touchdown drives to top rival Central Valley, clinch Parkway title
The biggest worry for a defense facing Aliquippa isn’t a long, grinding touchdown drive that eats the clock and wears you away physically.
5 things to watch in WPIAL Week 9: Head-to-head matchups to decide 9 conference titles
October 27, 2023
The wait is over.
Conference title hopes add heft to Aliquippa, Central Valley rivalry
One of coach Mike Warfield’s favorite sayings compares the fragility of success with that of a crystal glass, saying both can “break into 1,000 pieces” if you don’t hold onto them.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2023 football playoff pairings
October 26, 2023
Pairing the WPIAL football brackets is a difficult job once the playoff field is set, but it’s much, much harder when 15 spots are still undecided. That’s the situation now.
WPIAL announces pairings for 2023 field hockey playoffs
October 24, 2023
Defending WPIAL field hockey champions Pine-Richland and Penn-Trafford each earned No. 1 seeds Tuesday when the WPIAL playoff brackets were announced.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 8: WPIAL playoff hopefuls shake off early-season losses
October 21, 2023
Not only did Keystone Oaks lose three of its first four games, the Eagles also started the season by losing their best player to injury.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 22, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
‘Young and hungry’ North Allegheny takes ice with new-look roster
Only a sophomore, Luke Walkauskas skates on one of North Allegheny’s top lines, where he’s joined by two more 10th graders in Brendan White and Eddie Scherer.
Pine-Richland’s punishing ground game too much for Woodland Hills
There is nothing fancy about Pine-Richland’s wildcat offense and by now, it could hardly catch anyone by surprise.
Former Imani Christian standout Alier Maluk commits to Florida State
October 20, 2023
Former WPIAL basketball player Alier Maluk, who won a state title last winter with Imani Christian, announced his commitment to Florida State on Friday.
5 things to watch in WPIAL Week 8: Traditionally tough Parkway lives up to reputation
The Parkway Conference was traditionally considered among the best battles in WPIAL football, and this year’s version has lived up to that reputation.
Close friends to match wits when Pine-Richland, Woodland Hills meet in critical Class 5A clash
First-year Woodland Hills coach Brian Tarrant says he probably wouldn’t have his job without help from friend Jon LeDonne.
Former Kiski Area athlete Kyrell Hutcherson suing school district, WPIAL, PIAA, claiming racial discrimination
October 19, 2023
A former high school athlete who defeated the WPIAL and PIAA in court almost three years ago has sued the organizations again, this time saying they violated his civil rights by racially discriminating against him.
Steelers, NFL roots run deep with North Allegheny football team
October 15, 2023
There usually is a Super Bowl champion or two somewhere in the crowd at North Allegheny football games and it’s been that way for about a decade.
Coin flip decides final 2 spots in City League football playoffs
Allderdice, Brashear and Perry finished tied in the City League standings, which was a problem since only two could qualify for the football playoffs.
5 things we learned in Week 7 of WPIAL high school football: Long playoff drought over
October 14, 2023
One of the WPIAL’s longest active playoff droughts is over, and another long streak also could end this year.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 15, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
Bruising McKeesport running back Spell spells trouble for Gateway
October 13, 2023
McKeesport fullback Keith Spell was losing steam on a 79-yard touchdown run, so the senior turned, stiff-armed the nearest tackler to the ground and continued into the end zone.
5 things to watch in Week 7: How will WPIAL teams approach late-season nonconference matchups?
The WPIAL schedule-makers gave McKeesport a nonconference game this week, which some coaches might dread this late in the season.
Might Penn Hills try to ‘simulate’ winning strategy in matchup with Central Catholic?
October 12, 2023
Needless to say, Penn Hills was interested in watching game film from Central Catholic’s loss last week, since that was the first time the Vikings had looked vulnerable all season.
Moon coach Bill Pfeifer nears 500th win, an unprecedented feat in WPIAL girls soccer
October 10, 2023
Undefeated state champion, national coach of the year and the winningest coach in Pennsylvania girls soccer history. Moon’s Bill Pfeifer was all of those last fall and says he thought about retiring on top after a season that couldn’t have gone any better.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 6: Trinity finds diamond with signature win
October 7, 2023
There’s a popular meme that shows two miners digging for diamonds, but one gives up within inches of striking it rich.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 7, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
North Allegheny shakes off rivalry loss, focuses on future
North Allegheny’s football stadium was filled nearly to capacity for a hyped-up game with rival Central Catholic. There was an electric atmosphere in the crowd, yet the Tigers ended the night feeling drained after a lopsided loss.
Carter Shanafelt scores 4 times as Peters Township rockets past Moon
Speedy receiver Carter Shanafelt was in such a hurry Friday night that he started a second-half rally before halftime.
Shady Side Academy forfeits football game against Knoch
October 6, 2023
Shady Side Academy has forfeited Friday night’s football game against Knoch because of an illness among “several players,” the school announced hours before kickoff.
‘Outside of the box’ defense has Peters Township ranked No. 1 in WPIAL 5A
Peters Township’s T.J. Plack is an offensive-minded head coach of a high-scoring team that averages five touchdowns a week, yet he raves about a defense he calls special.
5 things to watch in Week 6: As NFL mourns, WPIAL remembers ‘coach’ Dick Butkus
Dick Butkus became legendary as one of the fiercest linebackers in NFL history, but folks around the WPIAL might remember him as “Coach” Butkus.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 5: Ground game pays off in win column
September 30, 2023
One of the WPIAL’s leading rushers shook off an ankle injury and returned to the field Friday night, helping West Greene’s offense run its way to victory.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 30. 2023
WPIAL football rankings
For North Allegheny cross country team, it’s a matter of staying the course
When it comes to putting down cones, North Allegheny might be second only to PennDOT. There are always plenty lining the school’s cross county course in North Park.
Wildcat attack sparks dominant 3rd quarter as Avonworth runs away from West Mifflin
There was no fiery halftime speech, but instead, one offensive adjustment had Avonworth looking like a different team in the third quarter.
5 things to watch in WPIAL Week 5: Finally, every team has reached conference play
September 29, 2023
WPIAL teams are now five weeks into the football season and 14 schools had yet to play a conference game.
Fear the Antelopes: Under-the-radar Avonworth to meet West Mifflin in key conference clash
September 28, 2023
Would there be more buzz for a type of cat, bear or angry bird?
Suspended Shady Side Academy coach Jonna Burke files lawsuit against PIAA
September 27, 2023
Shady Side Academy girls basketball coach Jonna Burke, who’s facing a one-year suspension for an alleged recruiting violation, has sued the PIAA seeking an injunction that would let her coach.
North Catholic junior Brady O’Hara commits to Penn State: ‘White Out sold it for me’
September 26, 2023
North Catholic junior Brady O’Hara has visited Penn State’s campus enough times that he’s almost lost count.
Aliquippa junior Tiqwai Hayes commits to Penn State
September 25, 2023
When Penn State assistant coach Terry Smith visited an Aliquippa football practice three years ago, he approached Quips coach Mike Warfield with a question.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 4: Brownsville wins for 1st time in 4 seasons
September 23, 2023
The drive home from Cupples Stadium is about an hour, but good news travels faster than Brownsville’s team bus.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 24, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
North Allegheny boys soccer team living up to standards set by 2nd-year coach
This is year two for Manuel Montero, and the North Allegheny boys soccer coach says there’s a much greater comfort level for the team this fall, and it shows.
Central Catholic makes statement, handles North Allegheny
September 22, 2023
There already were reasons to believe Central Catholic was the team to beat in the WPIAL, starting with a roster that’s heavy in major-college recruits.
North Allegheny, Central Catholic are familiar rivals, but this No. 1 vs. No. 2 clash has different feel
North Allegheny’s practices were noticeably faster this week, said coach Art Walker, but the Tigers weren’t getting off the field any earlier. It’s just that the defense was working at a quicker pace.
5 things to watch in WPIAL Week 4: Schedule pits No. 1 vs. No. 2 in top-ranked matchups
If a No. 1 vs. No. 2 matchup wasn’t enough excitement for a Friday night, this week also is homecoming at Peters Township, so football coach T.J. Plack had a message for his players.
Laurel school board limits girls sports at its facilities to athletes with ‘XX chromosomes’
September 20, 2023
Citing concerns over safety and fairness, one WPIAL school district has adopted a gender policy that limits girls sports to biological females.
WPIAL says discipline for ‘egregious’ Imani Christian-Steel Valley fight rests with schools
September 18, 2023
“Egregious” was how WPIAL executive director Scott Seltzer described Friday’s fight between Imani Christian and Steel Valley football players, but he was optimistic there’d be a resolution without WPIAL intervention.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 3: Turnarounds abound this year
September 16, 2023
Call this the year of the turnaround.
Fight mars final minute of Imani Christian-Steel Valley football game
The WPIAL will look into an on-field fight that marred the final minute of Friday night’s football game between Imani Christian and Steel Valley.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 17, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
No. 4 Beaver has right answers for defeating No. 5 South Park in Western Hills opener
Amari Jackson was upset for about 15 seconds and Beaver teammate Qualan Cain felt down for no more than 20.
5 things to watch in WPIAL Week 3: Preseason contenders cope with 0-3 starts
September 15, 2023
West Mifflin started the season ranked second in WPIAL Class 3A, but the Titans are still winless after three weeks.
Westinghouse tops University Prep, but ‘made too many mistakes’ for state title aspirations
Westinghouse sophomore Kyshawn Robinson scored twice and senior Sincere Shannon forced a fumble with a strip sack, but neither was all too happy.
PIAA changes how it counts students, likely increasing public school enrollment numbers
September 13, 2023
Public schools will see their enrollments increase in the next few months, at least according to PIAA statistics.
NIL violations will leave high school athletes ineligible under new PIAA policy
Pennsylvania high school athletes who repeatedly violate name, image and likeness rules would lose their eligibility entirely under penalties adopted Wednesday by the PIAA.
5 things we learned in Week 2: Rough night for defending WPIAL champions
September 11, 2023
Week 2 was a rough night for defending WPIAL champions.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 10, 2023
September 9, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
Injured Laurel Highlands football player Antwan Black, flown by medical helicopter, ‘in good spirits’
As injured teammate Antwan Black Jr. was on his way to the hospital, first by ambulance and then by helicopter, Laurel Highlands players had a tough decision to make.
North Allegheny reloads lineup in quest for 7th straight PIAA volleyball title
First-time starters on the North Allegheny girls volleyball team surely have more seasoning than most since they’ve practiced for years against a state championship lineup.
Quarterback Julian Dugger shows his versatility as No. 1 Penn Hills holds off No. 2 Pine-Richland
It’s no exaggeration when Penn Hills quarterback Julian Dugger says he did everything he could to win this one.
5 things to watch in Week 2: WPIAL teams are winning with multiple QBs
September 8, 2023
There’s an old saying about football teams with two starting quarterbacks actually having none, but Thomas Jefferson coach Bill Cherpak clearly disagrees.
‘Champs until proven otherwise:’ Penn Hills challenges Pine-Richland in No. 1 vs. 2 clash
September 7, 2023
Penn Hills is ranked No. 1 in WPIAL football, but Pine-Richland is the reigning conference, WPIAL and PIAA champion until someone takes those titles away.
Aliquippa running back Tiqwai Hayes narrows college options to Top 8
September 5, 2023
College football teams from the ACC, Big Ten and Big 12 are among the eight favorites to land Aliquippa running back Tiqwai Hayes.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 1: Longtime Bethel Park coach returns but on opposite sideline
September 2, 2023
Seeing Jeff Metheny at Bethel Park’s football stadium isn’t unusual, but seeing the longtime Black Hawks coach wearing Mt. Lebanon colors certainly is.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 3, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
Mt. Lebanon tops rival Bethel Park in overtime, avenging last year’s OT loss
September 1, 2023
Mt. Lebanon thought they’d won and then were sure they’d lost, so the surprised smile junior Noah Schaerli showed afterward summed up Friday’s win perfectly.
Bethel Park, Mt. Lebanon ignore talk of ‘down year’ after coaching change, graduations
New head coaches. Rosters hurt by graduation. Bethel Park and Mt. Lebanon came into this football season with similar situations.
5 things to watch in Week 1: A red-letter day in Aliquippa as the new Heinz Field opens
Not only is Aliquippa’s new football stadium named Heinz Field, but like its North Shore namesake, the Red Zone should be popular.
5 things we learned in Week Zero: New coaches find success quickly
August 26, 2023
Central Catholic players were kneeling around new coach Ryan Lehmeier in a postgame circle when longtime Vikings assistant Ron Fuchs spoke up.
Trib HSSN WPIAL high school football rankings: Week ending Aug. 27, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
Central Catholic routs Woodland Hills in Ryan Lehmeier’s debut as Vikings coach
There’s no question Ryan Lehmeier’s reputation as a motivator and sharp offensive mind enticed Central Catholic to hire him as a first-time head coach.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
August 24, 2023
TribLive HSSN broke down the top players at one position per day leading up to Week Zero. Now, here’s a look at the top coaching changes for the 2023 season.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the specialists
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top specialists for the 2023 season.
High school teams go high tech: Local football programs invest in innovative tools
North Allegheny’s Art Walker has coached long enough to remember when filming practice required a bulky camcorder and tapes.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the safeties
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top safeties for the 2023 season.
Bishop Canevin gets back to basics in quest to return to top of WPIAL Class A heap
August 23, 2023
Bishop Canevin coach Rich Johnson believes his team will be boring at times this season, and he’s excited to see it.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the cornerbacks
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top cornerbacks for the 2023 season.
PIAA upholds 1-year suspension for Shady Side Academy girls basketball coach Jonna Burke
August 22, 2023
The PIAA sided with the WPIAL on Tuesday and upheld the one-year suspension of Shady Side Academy girls basketball coach Jonna Burke.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the linebackers
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top linebackers for the 2023 season.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the defensive line
August 21, 2023
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top defensive linemen for the 2023 season.
With roster loaded with skill, Clairton planning to return to WPIAL championship picture
August 20, 2023
Call it what you want, football in shorts or touch football, but Clairton coach Wayne Wade sees some value in 7-on-7 tournaments, so his Bears spend the summer competing in them.
2023 WPIAL Class 5A football breakdown: Reaching postseason no easy task
In WPIAL Class 5A, there’s no room for error.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the tight ends
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top tight ends for the 2023 season.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the offensive line
August 19, 2023
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top offensive linemen for the 2023 season.
Clairton seeking donations to renovate 93-year-old football stadium
August 18, 2023
Before next football season, Clairton’s nearly century-old stadium could undergo a major renovation with new seats, locker rooms and restrooms, artificial turf, modern lighting and a brickwork entrance.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the wide receivers
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top wide receivers for the 2023 season.
Enthusiasm grows at Imani Christian with numbers up, talent abundant
August 17, 2023
Imani Christian’s practices look different this summer than last, largely because there are twice as many players.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top running backs for the 2023 season.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks
August 15, 2023
Starting today, TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top quarterbacks for the 2023 season.
With experienced roster returning, Mars’ jump is ‘mind blowing’
August 12, 2023
Mars coach Eric Kasperowicz doesn’t go out of his way to compare his current team with his previous one, but he does see some promising similarities.New North Allegheny hall of famer Mike McMahon tutoring next generation of QBs
Some quarterbacks get starting jobs early in high school, draw college offers as sophomores and hear fans predict how they’ll someday play on Sundays.
Skill returns, but Aliquippa has holes to fill in quest for WPIAL 3-peat
August 11, 2023
In a tradition-rich football town with 19 WPIAL titles, change doesn’t come easily for everyone.
New Woodland Hills coach expects big, athletic line to pave way to success
August 10, 2023
Woodland Hills football is well known for the wide receivers, running backs and defense backs who migrated from Friday nights to Saturdays and eventually Sunday afternoons.
With new big-play offense, Gateway looks to return to playoff win column
August 9, 2023
Most visitors return from Florida with theme park souvenirs, a suntan and maybe some oranges, but Gateway coach Don Holl brought home a new offense.
As football season begins with heat week, Central Catholic starts to lay foundation
August 7, 2023
Central Catholic’s new football coach, Ryan Lehmeier, and his predecessor, Terry Totten, were both on the practice field Monday when the Vikings started heat acclimation.
Blackhawk preparing to change football coaches days before camp starts
Add one more name to the list of schools with new head football coaches.
2023 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Westinghouse’s Kyshawn Robinson
August 5, 2023
Westinghouse reached the state finals last fall with a senior-heavy lineup, so the Bulldogs are destined for a down year, right?
2023 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: North Catholic’s Brady O’Hara
July 30, 2023
Being tall isn’t a new experience for North Catholic’s Brady O’Hara.
‘No one has a better answer:’ PIAA relying on principals to identify transgender athletes
July 29, 2023
High school principals in Pennsylvania are asked to identify transgender athletes as male or female under PIAA rules, while other states empower a health care provider or use a student’s birth certificate to make that decision.
2023 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: West Mifflin’s Rico Steele
July 25, 2023
Rico Steele earned all-conference honors a year ago as a big-bodied brawler, but the West Mifflin lineman spent the offseason reinventing himself.
Recruiting by H.S. coaches under microscope after Shady Side basketball coach’s suspension
July 22, 2023
A one-year suspension is the punishment for any PIAA coach caught recruiting, but is that rule taken seriously in every case and in all corners of the state?
WPIAL suspends Shady Side Academy girls basketball coach Jonna Burke for recruiting violation
July 20, 2023
When the parents of a basketball player from another school followed her on Twitter, Shady Side Academy coach Jonna Burke checked their profiles and sent them a direct message.
2023 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Mt. Lebanon’s Connor Young
July 18, 2023
Watching game film of last season was Mike Collodi’s way to learn quickly about the Blue Devils roster he inherited after Mt. Lebanon hired him as football coach.
1-and-1 free throws eliminated in basketball rule changes approved by PIAA
July 14, 2023
The one-and-one free throw has effectively fouled out of Pennsylvania high school basketball.
PIAA expands competitive-balance rule to include baseball, softball, soccer and other sports
The PIAA competitive-balance rule that now targets only football and basketball is expanding to include more team sports and some individual ones.
2023 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Bishop Canevin’s Jason Cross
July 12, 2023
Editor’s note: This is the first in a series of 25 profiles of the members of the Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team.
Oakland A’s select Brownsville outfielder Derrick Tarpley in MLB Draft
July 11, 2023
Brownsville maybe isn’t a familiar stop for some MLB scouts, but the Oakland A’s visited multiple times this spring to see senior outfielder Derrick Tarpley.
USA Today names 3 WPIAL greats among best high school quarterbacks in history
July 10, 2023
Who was the best high school quarterback in history?
North Allegheny’s Kellie McConnell follows familiar path, commits to Duquesne basketball
July 7, 2023
Kellie McConnell’s family is already linked with Duquesne basketball’s past and present, so she decided to help shape the program’s future as well.
2023 Pennsylvania All-State Softball Team
July 6, 2023
Avonworth’s Alivia Lantzy, Seneca Valley’s Lexie Hames and Serra Catholic’s Caroline Malandra earned individual honors Thursday when the all-state softball team was announced.
Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher named 2022-23 TribLive HSSN Boys Athlete of the Year
July 2, 2023
Rodney Gallagher was so good at both basketball and football that the Laurel Highlands star considered for a while trying to play both in college.
Freedom’s Shaye Bailey named 2022-23 TribLive HSSN Girls Athlete of the Year
In an era where specialization is trendy in high school sports, Freedom’s Shaye Bailey doesn’t like that idea.
2023 Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year: Shaler’s Miguel Hugas
July 1, 2023
The Strath Haven students behind the third base dugout decided to taunt Miguel Hugas with chants of “overrated.”
Looking back: The WPIAL’s top storylines from 2022-23
Nov. 11, 2022
Bishop Canevin safety Jason Cross, whose recruiting stock soared, commits to West Virginia
June 30, 2023
As one of the WPIAL’s hottest football recruits, Jason Cross spent months touring far-flung college campuses, with visits to Virginia Tech, Michigan State, Kentucky, Syracuse and Cincinnati on his calendar.
2023 TribLive HSSN Softball All-Stars
June 29, 2023
Neshannock’s Addyson Frye and Union’s Mia Preuhs were only sophomores this spring, yet the standout pitchers are already two-time WPIAL champions each.
2023 TribLive HSSN Baseball All-Stars
June 28, 2023
This was a historic spring for WPIAL baseball teams, starting with Riverside’s undefeated run to a state championship, something no other WPIAL team had ever accomplished.
KDKA announces 10-game high school football schedule for Pittsburgh’s CW
June 26, 2023
KDKA will televise regular season high school football games this fall on sister station Pittsburgh’s CW starting with an Aug. 25 contest between Blackhawk and Beaver Falls.
North Allegheny added more plaques, medals to trophy case during 2022-23 school year
June 24, 2023
This was another banner year for North Allegheny athletics with teams winning WPIAL titles, PIAA championships, and even a Gatorade Player of the Year award for the school’s top girls volleyball player.
Central Catholic wide receiver Peter Gonzalez commits to Penn State
June 23, 2023
Central Catholic wide receiver Peter Gonzalez, one of the state’s top college recruits, committed Friday to Penn State.
Mt. Lebanon’s 7th-inning rally falls short in state finals loss to Father Judge
June 17, 2023
UNIVERSITY PARK – The Mt. Lebanon baseball players left the state championship game with silver medals, but the Blue Devils’ coach insisted he’d always remembered this team as golden.
Keystone Oaks defensive back Clinton Robinson commits to Syracuse
Keystone Oaks defensive back Clinton Robinson, who’ll be a senior in the fall, has committed to Syracuse.
Shaler erases 5-run deficit, celebrates PIAA title with walk-off win
June 15, 2023
UNIVERSITY PARK — Starting pitcher Derek Leas lasted only nine batters before his coach pulled him from the mound, but this state championship will be remembered for its improbable comebacks.
Riverside makes history as undefeated PIAA baseball champion
UNIVERSITY PARK — In his 55 years as baseball coach at Riverside, Dan Oliastro has seen quite a bit, but he’d never seen this.
WPIAL awards streaming rights to NFHS Network; future of free viewing of championships in doubt
June 14, 2023
High school sports fans likely will have to pay to watch WPIAL football and basketball championships after the league awarded video streaming rights for its playoffs to the NFHS Network.
Mt. Lebanon celebrates Senior Week with win over Cedar Cliff, trip to state finals
June 13, 2023
Many of Tanner Donati’s classmates traveled to Ocean City, Md., to celebrate their recent high school graduation with a week of sand and sun.
PIAA postpones Mt. Lebanon, Shaler baseball state semifinals to Tuesday
June 11, 2023
WPIAL champions Mt. Lebanon and Shaler were among the baseball teams who had their PIAA semifinals postponed due to rainy weather Monday.
North Allegheny’s Ray Brinzer takes place among other WPIAL all-time greats
June 10, 2023
Thinking back to his 109-match winning streak in high school, former North Allegheny wrestler Ray Brinzer admits he was a little surprised.
Shaler ace Miguel Hugas comes through in PIAA quarterfinal win over Penn-Trafford
June 8, 2023
The original plan for Shaler ace Miguel Hugas wasn’t to pitch him in the state quarterfinals, but Penn-Trafford ran into the talented Alabama recruit here anyway.
Wisconsin lands another WPIAL recruit as Pine-Richland lineman Ryan Cory commits
June 6, 2023
Six hundred miles separate the University of Wisconsin from Western Pennsylvania, but the Badgers’ football coaches keep attracting WPIAL recruits to Madison.
Mt. Lebanon capitalizes on 4-error inning by Manheim Township in PIAA playoff win
June 5, 2023
Eight miles was how far Mt. Lebanon traveled to reach Boyce Mayview Park, the site of Monday’s state playoff game.
Former Steeler Jonathan Hayes highlights WPIAL Hall of Fame induction with focus on family
June 2, 2023
NFL veteran Jonathan Hayes is best known for playing tight end and coaching football, but as a student at South Fayette, his parents made sure he was involved in other activities.
PIAA reveals sites, times for 1st round of state softball playoffs
Avonworth and Neshannock repeated as WPIAL softball champions this week, but now they’ll try to win back-to-back state titles as well.
PIAA announces sites, times for 1st round of state baseball playoffs
The six WPIAL baseball champions will start the state tournament close to home, but nobody will be closer than Riverside.
Mt. Lebanon’s David Shields no-hits North Allegheny in WPIAL Class 6A baseball championship game
May 31, 2023
Mt. Lebanon has a knack for no-hitters in WPIAL championship games.
Venezuelan star leads Shaler to dominant win over Bethel Park in WPIAL Class 5A finals
May 30, 2023
Miguel Hugas sparked a championship celebration in Shaler Township, but the star senior was sure he’d hear from some happy baseball fans in Venezuela too.
McKeesport’s Jahmil Perryman scores twice as Pennsylvania wins Big 33 Football Classic
May 29, 2023
McKeesport’s Jahmil Perryman scored twice, and Team Pennsylvania rallied with a late touchdown to win the Big 33 Football Classic, 31-27, over the Maryland all-stars Sunday in Harrisburg.
Riverview’s Amberson Bauer runs away with 800 title at PIAA championships
May 27, 2023
Amberson Bauer prepares for track meets with some visualization, running each stage of a race through his head with mental reps.
Brownsville’s Jolena Quarzo extends family’s winning streak to 5 at PIAA championships
The PIAA had a special guest award Brownsville senior Jolena Quarzo her final state championship gold medal — her older sister Gionna.
Mt. Lebanon’s Logan St. John Kletter breaks PIAA championship record in 3,200 meters
SHIPPENSBURG — At this time last year, Logan St. John Kletter was suffering from a nerve condition in her foot and wondering when she’d run competitively again.
PIAA notebook: Injury knocks highly seeded WPIAL champion out of 100 meters
SHIPPENSBURG — An injury cut short New Castle sprinter Kaevon Gardner’s debut at the state track championships Friday, forcing one of the top athletes in the 100-meter dash to make an early exit.
Freeport senior shakes off rough start, claims PIAA discus medal
May 26, 2023
SHIPPENSBURG — After her first couple of discus throws produced a foul and a 104-footer, Reese Skiba’s state championship was off to a lackluster start.
Brownsville’s Jolena Quarzo defends 1,600-meter title at PIAA track championships
SHIPPENSBURG — Brownsville’s Jolena Quarzo decided to skip more races than usual in her senior year, but this wasn’t a case of senioritis.
Coaches wish PIAA team track title could be decided in playoff format like WPIAL
May 25, 2023
It takes a team effort to win a WPIAL team track title, but that’s not necessarily true for winning a state title.
‘Tremendous issue’ with foot hasn’t slowed Upper St. Clair sprinter Dani Prunzik entering states
Nobody who saw Dani Prunzik sprint across the finish line at the WPIAL track championships could’ve guessed the Upper St. Clair senior has battled a painful foot injury for almost a year.
Longtime Hampton athletic director Bill Cardone to retire
May 24, 2023
Longtime Hampton athletic director Bill Cardone won’t be making as many trips to Mars or Moon, but soon he’ll have plenty of free time to travel the world.
Plum reliever shuts door on South Fayette in Class 5A quarterfinals
May 22, 2023
Plum relief pitcher Colin Watson isn’t so worried about how things start but rather how they finish.
Peters Township’s Brendan McCullough makes key interception in East-West all-star win
Peters Township defensive back Brendan McCullough made a late-game interception Sunday that secured a 24-16 victory for his West team in the PSFCA East-West Big School Game in Harrisburg.
From snowboarding to javelin, North Allegheny’s Alaina Fantaski is a determined champion
May 20, 2023
North Allegheny senior Alaina Fantaski was a nationally ranked snowboarder in junior high, who also tried fencing and more traditional activities like basketball.
Canon-McMillan’s Rose Kuchera wins 4 gold medals while crisscrossing WPIAL track championships
May 17, 2023
Canon-McMillan’s Rose Kuchera was relaxing in the team’s tent when a teammate asked if she was running the 100-meter hurdles.
5 things to watch at WPIAL track and field championships
The WPIAL might be known best for its football hall of famers, but don’t overlook the league’s track and field pedigree.
Known for high-flying dunks, Penn Hills’ Daemar Kelly now leaping over high jump bars
May 16, 2023
Anyone who saw Daemar Kelly finish an alley-oop this winter knows the Penn Hills senior can almost fly. In a gym, on a wood floor, with a basketball in his hands, few around the WPIAL jump higher than him.
NFHS eliminates 1-and-1 foul shots from high school basketball rulebook
May 15, 2023
The pressure of shooting a one-and-one is likely to vanish from high school basketball.
Former OLSH basketball star Jake DiMichele commits to Duquesne
May 12, 2023
Former Our Lady of the Sacred Heart basketball star Jake DiMichele, who graduated a year ago as one of WPIAL’s all-time leading scorers, committed Friday to Duquesne.
Central Catholic linebacker Cole Sullivan commits to Michigan
Central Catholic linebacker Cole Sullivan committed Friday to Michigan, choosing the Wolverines over finalists Duke, Notre Dame, Stanford and Wisconsin.
Breaking down the 2023 WPIAL baseball playoffs
Class 6A
WPIAL releases brackets for 2023 baseball playoffs
Who’s No. 1?
WPIAL announces pairings for 2023 softball playoffs
May 11, 2023
Last year’s winners are back for more.
WPIAL adds Pittsburgh Pirates as sponsor for baseball, softball championships
The WPIAL baseball and softball finals will include racing pierogies, T-shirt tosses and a famous green parrot now that the Pittsburgh Pirates have become a presenting sponsor of the high school championship games.
WPIAL awards Mars, Peters Township top seeds in boys lacrosse playoffs
Defending WPIAL and state champion Mars will begin its title defense as a No. 1 seed in the WPIAL boys lacrosse playoffs.
Bob Palko among 5 football coaches chosen for PSFCA Hall of Fame
Bob Palko, who won a record nine WPIAL football titles at West Allegheny and Mt. Lebanon, will be inducted this month into the Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
Pine-Richland, Mars draw top seeds in WPIAL girls lacrosse playoffs
Pine-Richland and Mars received the top seeds when the WPIAL announced brackets for the girls lacrosse playoffs Thursday.
North Allegheny girls, boys sweep WPIAL Class 3A track and field team titles
May 9, 2023
North Allegheny track coach John Neff said he had trouble deciding which three girls should run the 3,200 meters Tuesday, mainly because the Tigers had too many good options.
WPIAL softball rankings: Week ending May 7, 2023
Class 6A
Moon’s Jacob Puhalla defends McKinney Mile title in Baldwin Invite’s marquee race
Once Jacob Puhalla wins a track title, the Moon runner likes to win it again.
Many WPIAL athletes at Baldwin Invitational embrace challenge of back-to-back meets
Liz Tapper is one of the state’s top throwers, but the Hempfield senior faced a challenge Friday that was new to her and many others at the Baldwin Invitational.
2023 all-state boys basketball team includes 29 WPIAL players
May 3, 2023
Aquinas Academy’s Vinnie Cugini and Steel Valley’s Makhai Valentine earned all-state player of the year honors Wednesday as two of the most prolific scorers in WPIAL boys basketball.
WPIAL team track, boys tennis events postponed Tuesday because of rain
May 2, 2023
Tuesday’s cold, wet weather led the WPIAL to postpone tennis and team track and field events until later in the week.
Central Catholic linebacker Cole Sullivan narrows college options to ‘Top 5’
April 30, 2023
Central Catholic already has one junior linebacker committed to a Power 5 school but soon will have another.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 30, 2023
Class 6A
North Allegheny hosting Western Pa. Football Recruiting Day to connect with college coaches
There are dozens of small-college football coaches who recruit Western Pennsylvania, but sometimes a talented WPIAL player can go overlooked in the process.
North Hills’ Royce Parham commits to Marquette
April 26, 2023
North Hills junior Royce Parham, one of the WPIAL’s top college basketball recruits, committed Wednesday to Marquette.
Former North Allegheny basketball coach Dan DeRose files lawsuit against Fox Chapel School District after ’21 altercation
Dan DeRose wants to coach high school basketball again, but the former WPIAL champion said school districts have shied away because of criminal charges he faced two years ago involving Fox Chapel school police.
South Fayette’s Maddie Webber, Union coach Rob Nogay lead all-state girls basketball team
April 24, 2023
South Fayette senior Maddie Webber, a Villanova recruit who led the Lions to a WPIAL title and a PIAA runner-up finish this winter, was named the state’s Class 5A girls basketball player of the year by all-state voters.
WPIAL Baseball rankings: Week ending April 23, 2023
Class 6A
North Allegheny sprinter Khiryn Boyd showing off his speed among WPIAL’s best
After not running track for a year, North Allegheny sprinter Khiryn Boyd was curious about the times being run this spring and how his compared with his competitors.
PIAA adds 500 officials, but shortage remains ‘major issue’ for many sports
April 19, 2023
Statewide efforts to recruit and retain high school game officials are seeing some positive results, said a PIAA administrator who oversees the men and women in stripes.
WPIAL announces 20 winners of James Collins Scholar-Athlete Award
The WPIAL saw an increased number of applicants for the James Collins Scholar-Athlete Award this year, and Wednesday announced 20 winners from the 162 nominees.
Trib HSSN WPIAL softball rankings: Week ending April 16, 2023
Class 6A
500-game winner Dana Petruska retires as Mars basketball coach, cites ‘some parent situations’
Mars girls basketball coach Dana Petruska is retiring after 37 years and more than 500 wins, in part because there were too many wannabe coaches in the stands.
Deep North Allegheny girls track and field team takes aim at defending WPIAL title
Recent history says the North Allegheny girls have a good chance to repeat as WPIAL team track champions later this spring. Consider, in the past 30 years, no Class 3A girls champion has won the title only once.
South Park promotes longtime assistant to football coach
April 14, 2023
South Park’s new football coach is already very familiar with the program.
Moon finds replacement for retiring athletic director Ron Ledbetter
Moon has hired a new athletic director to replace Ron Ledbetter, who is retiring this summer after a 33-year career as an educator. The school on Thursday announced the hire of current Beaver athletic director Alan Alcalde.
Butler basketball standout Braylon Littlejohn commits to Miami (Ohio) — for football
April 12, 2023
When Butler’s Braylon Littlejohn committed to Miami (Ohio) on Tuesday, folks weren’t asking him about his choice of schools, but rather his choice of sports.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 9, 2023
Class 6A
Behind family atmosphere, North Allegheny softball team aims to return to WPIAL final
The North Allegheny softball players were individually asked by their coaches to pick one word to describe the program. It wasn’t a serious task, just a light-hearted word-association game.
Belle Vernon star Quinton Martin picks Penn State
April 7, 2023
Penn State landed its first WPIAL running back recruit since Miles Sanders when Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin committed to the Nittany Lions.
2023 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball All-Stars
April 6, 2023
Scoring 1,000 points in a high school career remains an impressive feat in WPIAL basketball, but remarkably, the league saw its first 3,000-point scorer this winter.
Lincoln Park’s Meleek Thomas named 2023 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball Player of the Year
2023 Boys Basketball Player of the Year
2023 TribLive HSSN Girls Basketball All-Stars
April 5, 2023
South Fayette won a second consecutive WPIAL girls basketball title this winter, North Allegheny won its third in four years and North Catholic won its sixth since 2017. Those powerhouse teams and more are represented here in the TribLive HSSN girls basketball all-stars for 2023.
Blackhawk basketball coach Steve Lodovico took job ‘for a year,’ resigns 18 seasons later after building WPIAL powerhouse
April 3, 2023
Eighteen years ago, Steve Lodovico applied to be Blackhawk’s boys basketball coach, hoping to replace his legendary mentor John Miller, who was retiring.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 2, 2023
Class 6A
‘Nobody has a perfect system:’ PIAA, critics remain at odds over public-private school debate
The Philadelphia Catholic League opponent Deer Lakes faced in the state basketball finals played tremendous defense, but that shouldn’t surprise anyone, the Lancers’ coach said.
North Allegheny boys volleyball embarks on season of change
The senior-heavy lineup that won a state championship has graduated. The head coach who led the program for two decades has retired. Yes, this is a season of change for the North Allegheny boys volleyball team.
Despite strong start, Deer Lakes comes up short to West Catholic in PIAA Class 3A final
March 25, 2023
HERSHEY — “Let’s go Lancers.”
Aliquippa again finishes as PIAA runner-up after loss to Lancaster Mennonite
March 24, 2023
HERSHEY — Trips to the so-called “Sweetest Place on Earth” have become bittersweet for Aliquippa.
Lincoln Park beats perennial PIAA power Neumann-Goretti in state finals classic
March 23, 2023
HERSHEY — With 11 seconds on the clock, Lincoln Park’s Meleek Thomas knew it was time to “boogie.”
With tiny enrollment but tons of talent, Imani Christian claims PIAA Class A basketball crown
HERSHEY — One of the smallest high schools in the state won the biggest basketball trophy in Pennsylvania, yet few will call this an underdog story.
Deer Lakes makes more history with berth in 1st PIAA final
March 21, 2023
Neither team had ever reached the state finals, so the Deer Lakes and Penn Cambria boys basketball teams knew history would be made one way or the other Tuesday night.
OLSH basketball coach Don Eckerle ‘good to go’ after collapsing at PIAA semifinal game
On a hectic game day, with all of the preparation that needs to be done, coaches can neglect themselves at times, said longtime basketball coach Don Eckerle.
Imani Christian dominates rematch with Union, earns 1st trip to PIAA basketball finals
March 20, 2023
The words of an opposing coach and heated talk about public vs. private wasn’t what ultimately motivated Imani Christian for Monday night’s playoff win.
Strong 3rd quarter leads Aliquippa past Bishop Canevin in ‘testy’ PIAA quarterfinal
March 18, 2023
The atmosphere around the Aliquippa vs. Bishop Canevin state quarterfinal was tense, to say the least.
After early playoff exit, North Allegheny aims to ‘get that fire back’
The gaggle of professional baseball scouts is gone, but that doesn’t mean there’s a quiet atmosphere nowadays at North Allegheny practices.
‘Other three’ key as Lincoln Park holds off Laurel Highlands in PIAA quarterfinals
March 17, 2023
Lincoln Park’s Dontay Green left the locker room without a shoe on his right foot, the troublesome one that needed screws and plates to fix a lisfranc fracture several months ago.
PIAA announces sites, times for Saturday state basketball quarterfinals
March 16, 2023
Peters Township will host an all-WPIAL doubleheader Saturday in the quarterfinals of the state basketball tournament.
Central Catholic’s PIAA bracket busted by son of Penn State basketball coach
March 15, 2023
EBENSBURG — State College’s Braeden Shrewsberry didn’t accompany his father to the NCAA tournament, but the son of Penn State’s basketball coach created his own moments of March Madness.
Despite defensive shadow, Rodney Gallagher leads Laurel Highlands into PIAA quarterfinals
March 14, 2023
Laurel Highlands coach Rick Hauger’s practices can include some junk defenses, maybe a diamond-and-one or triangle-and-two, but the Mustangs don’t use them in games.
Butler’s Drew Griffith leads 2023 PTFCA all-state honors as indoor track athlete of the year
Butler junior Drew Griffith, one of the state’s top distance runners, was named the boys indoor track athlete of the year by the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.
Butler rejoining WPIAL football in 2024, ends dispute with PIAA
March 13, 2023
The Butler football team will rejoin the WPIAL in 2024, ending a legal dispute between the school district and PIAA over the team’s desire to stay in District 10.
Deer Lakes boys open state playoffs with dominant win on home floor
March 11, 2023
The stairs that lead from the Deer Lakes locker room to the gym floor are quite steep, but the Lancers were confident they wouldn’t stumble on this day.
‘Bad night’ eliminates North Hills in 1st round of PIAA playoffs
March 10, 2023
North Hills spent the past 10 days putting up shots in its own gym, making Friday’s shooting woes hard to explain.
Union H.S. basketball coach reignites public vs. private debate with postgame comments
March 7, 2023
Union basketball coach Mark Stanley said he wasn’t trying to spark a firestorm with his critical comments at the WPIAL finals but instead shared out loud thoughts other public school coaches keep to themselves.
Behind big night from Dante DePante, Central Catholic stops New Castle to win 2nd WPIAL title
March 4, 2023
Central Catholic hadn’t won a WPIAL title in 15 years, but Dante DePante made himself at home in Petersen Events Center, an arena that’s about a mile from the Vikings’ gym.
In the end, Lincoln Park too much for North Catholic in Class 4A WPIAL title game
March 3, 2023
Lincoln Park’s Brandin Cummings and Meleek Thomas hear praise from many places, but on this championship night, the best accolades came from the coach of the other team.
Deer Lakes dethrones OLSH to win 1st WPIAL basketball championship
The Deer Lakes boys made basketball history twice this winter, and each time they snapped an Our Lady of the Sacred Heart streak.
Penn Hills second to none in WPIAL finals victory over Peters Township
March 2, 2023
Penn Hills is underrated no more.
Imani Christian surges past Union to win 1st WPIAL title, reigniting public-private debate
Playing against Imani Christian is always a tall task, but as 6-foot-11 sophomore Alier Maluk swung from a Petersen Events Center rim Thursday night, the gigantic challenge became clear.
2023 WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship breakdown: Lincoln Park vs. North Catholic
WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball final
2023 WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball championship breakdown: Deer Lakes vs. OLSH
WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball final
2023 WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship breakdown: Peters Township vs. Penn Hills
WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball final
2023 WPIAL Class A boys basketball championship breakdown: Imani Christian vs. Union
March 1, 2023
WPIAL Class A boys basketball final
Hot-shooting New Castle tops Mt. Lebanon, returns to WPIAL finals for 6th time in 7 years
February 28, 2023
The first quarter was too low-scoring for Isaiah Boice’s comfort, so the New Castle senior got to work.
Deer Lakes hits 3-pointer in closing seconds, upsets No. 1 seed Steel Valley
February 27, 2023
The Deer Lakes boys are headed to the WPIAL finals for the first time in school history, and they’ll do so with a first-year coach leading the celebration. But before they could scream and shout Monday night, everyone in green and gold held their breath.
Longtime Beaver football coach, WPIAL Hall of Famer Pat Tarquinio dies
Longtime Beaver football coach Pat Tarquinio, who was one of the winningest coaches in WPIAL history, has died. Beaver athletic director Alan Alcalde announced his death Monday.
Penn Hills baffles North Hills with 3-pointers, alley-oops in WPIAL semifinal win
February 25, 2023
Penn Hills teammates Daemar Kelly and Julian Dugger have perfected their high-flying alley-oop this winter, mastering a play that shows their rare athleticism.
Behind veteran standouts, talented freshmen, North Allegheny girls eye another WPIAL swimming title
North Allegheny’s Corky Semler has coached high school swimming for almost 40 years, so when he says this year’s freshman class is among his best, that’s worth noting.
Football coach Mike Collodi leaves Elizabeth Forward for Mt. Lebanon
February 24, 2023
A football player’s body language and how he carries himself are important to Mike Collodi, who was thrilled with the reception he received Thursday as Mt. Lebanon’s new coach.
Mt. Lebanon holds off Butler, reaches WPIAL semifinals for 5th time in 6 years
Three times in the fourth quarter, Mt. Lebanon’s Riley Farabaugh was sent to the foul line for a crucial one-and-one.
No. 1 Lincoln Park survives WPIAL quarterfinal test from South Allegheny
February 23, 2023
Lincoln Park was held 25 points below its season average and didn’t make a 3-pointer all game, yet the WPIAL favorite in Class 4A is still alive.
PIAA cracks down on ‘redshirt’ years taken by junior high athletes
February 22, 2023
The PIAA is cracking down on junior high athletes who take unofficial redshirt years.
WPIAL reveals new consolation brackets for basketball, includes 3rd-place games
February 21, 2023
The last time WPIAL basketball had a consolation bracket, the league used a combination of play-in games and follow-the-winner tiebreakers to qualify teams for the 2016 state tournament.
Amid coaching controversy, Steel Valley opens playoffs with win over McGuffey
Whenever Steel Valley’s Makhai Valentine glanced into the stands Monday night, he wasn’t looking for friends or family. That’s where his suspended head coach was sitting, five rows behind the team’s bench.
South Park football coach Marty Rieck resigns after 8 seasons
February 20, 2023
South Park football coach Marty Rieck, who won state titles with the Eagles as both a player and assistant coach, has resigned after eight seasons leading the program.
Nationally ranked wrestlers among winners at Western Pa. Girls Championship
Three nationally ranked wrestlers were among the 13 champions crowned Sunday at the Western Pa. Girls Championship, an event that more than doubled in size since last winter.
22 WPIAL football players picked for Big School East-West all-star game
February 18, 2023
Pine-Richland teammates Ryan Palmieri, Jake Beam, John Rottinghaus and Matt Nicely, who won a state title together in December, were among 22 WPIAL football players chosen for the Big School East-West all-star game.
North Allegheny girls regroup during long layoff before WPIAL Class 6A playoffs commence
WPIAL schedule-makers gave the North Allegheny girls almost two weeks off before the basketball playoffs, but the Tigers didn’t take a vacation.
Small School East-West all-star game roster includes 16 from WPIAL, City League
Pitt recruit Braylan Lovelace of Leechburg and future Miami (Ohio) lineman Greg Smith of Steel Valley were among 16 WPIAL and City League players selected for the Small School East-West all-star game this year.
Experienced backcourt leads No. 4 Gateway past Woodland Hills in WPIAL playoff opener
A backcourt led by experienced guards is a time-tested formula that works in March Madness, but it also wins games here in the WPIAL playoffs.
13 WPIAL, City League players chosen for 2023 Big 33 Football Classic
February 17, 2023
Thirteen players from the WPIAL and City League were selected to compete in this year’s Big 33 Football Classic.
WPIAL brings back play-in games to determine state basketball playoff qualifiers
February 14, 2023
No more sitting and waiting.
Choosing Hampton’s seed becomes tricky decision with leading scorer ineligible
The chairman of the WPIAL basketball committee largely avoided one of Monday’s most-interesting debates, since it was a topic close to his heart.
Breaking down the 2023 WPIAL boys basketball playoff brackets
February 13, 2023
A closer look at the WPIAL boys basketball playoffs, which begin Thursday night:
WPIAL reveals basketball playoff brackets asking: ‘What have you done lately?’
If the season ended three days ago, the Penn Hills boys probably would’ve earned a No. 1 seed in the WPIAL basketball playoffs.
2023 WPIAL bracketology: HSSN forecasts the boys basketball playoff pairings
February 12, 2023
The Path to the Pete will be revealed Monday when the WPIAL basketball playoff pairings are announced at 3 p.m. on TribLive HSSN.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 12, 2023
Class 6A
North Allegheny set to host 2nd annual Western Pa. girls wrestling championship
About 35 athletes visited North Allegheny last winter for the first Western Pa. girls wrestling championship, a number that should more than double this time around.
Rodney Gallagher scores 29, Laurel Highlands tops rival Uniontown in 2OTs
February 10, 2023
The scouting report on Rodney Gallagher says that if he gets enough late-game chances, he’ll usually make opponents pay.
Central Catholic’s Debaba Tshiebwe follows brotherly advice, posts double-double to defeat Butler
February 8, 2023
Advice from an older brother can be valuable, especially when your brother is the top college basketball player in the country.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending February 5, 2023
February 4, 2023
Class 6A
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending February 5, 2023
Class 6A
Isaiah Boice’s quick recovery helps No. 1 New Castle defeat No. 2 Central Catholic
Isaiah Boice planned to celebrate New Castle’s section title by drinking lots of chocolate milk, the bone-healing beverage he credits for his quick recovery.
State rep proposes legislation that would allow PIAA to crown separate public, private champs
February 3, 2023
The PIAA has maintained that splitting public and private schools into separate playoffs is prohibited under a state statute from 1972, but new legislation could rewrite that law.
Baldwin hires McKeesport assistant Dana Brown Jr. as football coach
February 1, 2023
Dana Brown Jr. turns 32 on Sunday, but he got an early birthday present Wednesday night.
Ohio-bound D.J. Walker, 5 other Aliquippa seniors make college commitments official
A group of Aliquippa football seniors including standout safety/wide receiver Donovan Walker announced their college commitments Wednesday, with Walker choosing Ohio.
Aquinas Academy’s Vinnie Cugini breaks WPIAL basketball all-time scoring record
January 31, 2023
There’s a new all-time leading scorer in WPIAL basketball history, but the newly crowned record holder had a somewhat subdued celebration.
Woodland Hills’ Miles Sanders extends Super Bowl streak for Big 33 Football Classic
January 29, 2023
The Big 33 Football Classic’s Super Bowl streak lives on, thanks to a former WPIAL star.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 29, 2023
Class 6A
North Allegheny wrestling crowns 2 county champs
North Allegheny’s wrestling team celebrated two individual champions at the Allegheny County Tournament at Fox Chapel, where senior Jayson Flener and junior Aidan Buggey each won their weight class Jan. 20-21.
No. 1 Lincoln Park uses ‘organized mayhem’ to defeat North Catholic, strengthen section lead
“Organized mayhem” is the way Lincoln Park’s boys basketball team describes its offense.
6 WPIAL coaches earn NFHS Section 2 honors for 2021-22 sports seasons
January 27, 2023
Six WPIAL coaches have earned regional honors from the National Federation of State High School Associations for their work in the 2021-22 school year.
City League QB among 5 finalists for Willie Thrower Award for 1st time
January 24, 2023
Westinghouse quarterback Keyshawn Morsillo, who led the Bulldogs on a historic run to the state football finals, was announced Tuesday as one of five finalists for the Willie Thrower Award.
Central Catholic hires former Seneca Valley, Pine-Richland assistant Ryan Lehmeier as football coach
Central Catholic’s new football coach wasn’t chosen from the school’s alumni list, but that doesn’t mean Ryan Lehmeier isn’t already familiar with the team’s tradition.
Bethel Park hires offensive coordinator Phil Peckich as football coach
Bethel Park promoted offensive coordinator Phil Peckich to head coach Tuesday night, giving the Black Hawks football program some continuity under a coach who’s among the youngest in the WPIAL.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 22, 2023
Class 6A
WPIAL Hall of Fame inductee Don Rebel reflects on 35 years calling games
A tree in the middle of a grassy field in Sheraden served as the first press box for a 7- or 8-year-old Don Rebel, who climbed the branches and offered play-by-play for his older brother’s Wiffle ball games.
North Allegheny wrestling great Ray Brinzer to join WPIAL Hall of Fame
Ray Brinzer writes software and manages databases as a computer programmer, which seems a world away from a wrestling mat for one of the WPIAL’s all-time greats, but the former North Allegheny star can see similarities.
With Pitt coach watching, Aliquippa football stars hit basketball stride to defeat Shenango
January 19, 2023
Pitt football coach Pat Narduzzi was sitting among the home fans in Aliquippa’s gym Wednesday night, there with dozens of others to watch a group of football players throw around a basketball.
Valley great Tom Pipkins highlights 2023 WPIAL Hall of Fame class
January 18, 2023
Tom Pipkins jokes that he might already be retired from working if high school athletes could’ve signed endorsement deals back in his day.
Peters Township creates 3-way section tie with narrow win over Bethel Park
Peters Township broke a tie on the scoreboard to create a tie in the standings.
Central Catholic’s Anthony Speca commits to Penn State
January 17, 2023
Central Catholic linebacker Anthony Speca, one of the state’s top college football recruits, committed Tuesday to Penn State.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 15, 2023
Class 6A
North Allegheny inline hockey team thrives outside spotlight
North Allegheny has a high school sports team that’s undefeated this winter, a motivated roster that’s trying to avenge a second-place finish from last year.
Mars aces midterm test with 37-point win over No. 1 Chartiers Valley
After a week of big tests in the classroom, the Mars boys basketball team passed another on the court Friday night.
North Allegheny’s Mia Tuman repeats as Gatorade Pa. Volleyball Player of the Year
January 13, 2023
North Allegheny senior Mia Tuman was recognized as the state’s top girls volleyball player for the second year in a row Friday when she was named Gatorade Pennsylvania Volleyball Player of the Year.
Pine-Richland football coach Jon LeDonne among 32 nominees for NFL’s Don Shula Award
Pine-Richland football coach Jon LeDonne, who led the Rams to a state title this season, was one of 32 coaches nationwide nominated for the Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year award.
Mt. Lebanon matches rival Upper St. Clair shot for shot in double-overtime win
January 10, 2023
Two dozen 3-pointers made the score higher than a typical Mt. Lebanon-Upper St. Clair grind, but the dramatic finish still fit this gritty rivalry’s history.
Penn Township’s Brian Sakowski ready to officiate national championship game
January 7, 2023
Sixteen years ago, as Brian Sakowski remembers, he worked his first varsity football game, a WPIAL rivalry between Trinity and Canon-McMillan.
Trib HSSN girls basketball rankings for week of Jan. 8, 2023
Class 6A
Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings for week of Jan. 8, 2023
Class 6A
Jonathan Anderson leads No. 1 New Castle past No. 2 Butler in renewed rivalry
New Castle’s Jonathan Anderson already knew all about his school’s old rivalry with Butler, even though the senior hadn’t faced the Tornado in his playing days.
WPIAL clears 6-9 basketball player Ama Sow after transfer to Montour
January 6, 2023
Montour sophomore Ama Sow kept asking boys basketball coach Bill Minear the same question.
Bob Palko, 9-time WPIAL champion, resigns as Mt. Lebanon football coach
Thirteen months after celebrating a state championship with the Blue Devils, Bob Palko has resigned as Mt. Lebanon’s football coach to focus attention on concerns away from the field.
Rosters announced for 2023 PIHL all-star games
Hempfield’s Nick Bruno and Bishop Canevin’s Ryan Saginaw, two of the PIHL’s top scorers, are among 210 players selected for the league’s all-star games.
PIHL mourns death of commissioner John Mucha
January 5, 2023
PIHL commissioner John Mucha, the top administrator for high school hockey in Western Pennsylvania, has died.
Hampton’s Peter Kramer scores 37 in key section win over Highlands
January 3, 2023
Hampton’s Peter Kramer shushed the Highlands crowd after one of his seven 3-pointers, a celebration he downplayed later, but nobody was able to quiet the Talbots’ newest star on this night.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings for week of Jan. 1, 2023
Class 6A
Lincoln Park tops Laurel Highlands in potential star-powered WPIAL championship preview
December 29, 2022
With a hyped crowd watching inside CCBC’s dome, Lincoln Park’s Meleek Thomas made a pair of free throws with 21 seconds left Thursday, the final points in a 70-66 victory over top-ranked Laurel Highlands.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 25, 2022
Class 6A
See the 2022 WPIAL and City League all-conference football teams
December 24, 2022
The four months of high school football season might zip by in a blur, but each fall the coaches take a moment to reflect, look back and vote for all-conference teams.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Fort Cherry freshman leads Black Hills awards
Fort Cherry’s Matt Sieg is only a freshman but conference coaches chose the dual-threat quarterback as the offensive MVP in the Black Hills this season.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Beaver Falls, Mohawk top Midwestern selections
Conference champion Beaver Falls earned six first-team spots on the all-Midwestern team led by senior Trey Singleton, who earned honors on both sides of the ball.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Greensburg Central Catholic tops Eastern awards
Conference champion Greensburg Central Catholic earned eight first-team spots on the all-conference team, including two by lineman Ryan Kimmel, who was recognized on both sides of the ball.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Mapletown leads Tri-County South after historic season
Mapletown celebrated its first undefeated regular season since 1968, a feat that was recognized in all-conference awards.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Union’s Braylon Thomas leads Big 7 award winners
Union quarterback Braylon Thomas and South Side linebacker Ryan Navarra earned the top individual awards in the Class A Big 7 all-conference voting.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Sto-Rox tops Century with 9 players on 1st team
December 23, 2022
Sto-Rox was a newcomer in the Class 2A Century Conference, but the Vikings made themselves right at home this season.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Steel Valley leads 1st team with 9 spots in Allegheny
Steel Valley’s Cruce Brookins was a two-way standout for the Ironmen, but he wasn’t the only player on the roster making an impact on both sides of the ball.
2022 All-City League Football Team: Westinghouse’s Keyshawn Morsillo, coach Donta Green take top honors
December 22, 2022
Westinghouse won the City League title for the 38th time in team history, but the Bulldogs didn’t stop there.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Avonworth sweeps MVP honors in Western Hills
Avonworth’s Luke Hilyard and Brandon Biagiarelli swept the conference MVP honors, and nine teammates also were named first-team all-conference after the Antelopes won the Class 3A Western Hills title.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Belle Vernon gets 12 spots on Interstate 1st team
Belle Vernon has had many reasons to celebrate.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Freeport, Shady Side Academy lead Allegheny 6 honors
Conference champion Freeport received 10 first-team all-conference spots in the Class 3A Allegheny 6, led by Ben Lane, Jacksen Reiser and Jacob Bollinger, who also earned individual awards.
Western Pa.’s Top 10 football prospects for the Class of 2024
December 21, 2022
College football coaches needing a linebacker, running back, wide receiver or offensive lineman will be visiting Western Pennsylvania in the coming months.
2022 TribLive HSSN Terrific 25 Football All-Stars
Western Pennsylvania had five high school football teams reach the state finals this season, including a postseason run by Westinghouse that was the City League’s first PIAA championship game appearance in decades.
Trib HSSN 2022 Head of the Class: Football player of the year in all 6 classes
December 19, 2022
As the saying goes, big-time players make big-time plays in big-time games. Many of the best players in Western Pennsylvania proved those words true this fall.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings for week of Dec. 18, 2022
Class 6A
PIAA sparks controversy with changes to diving championships
The PIAA fears high school diving is disappearing from many areas of the state, but changes meant to save the sport will force the WPIAL to revamp its championship format this winter.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: 10 Armstrong players, coach Frank Fabian earn Greater Allegheny honors
December 16, 2022
WPIAL passing leader Cadin Olsen earned first-team all-conference honors in the Class 4A Greater Allegheny, along with his top two receiving targets.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Aliquippa, coach Mike Warfield lead Parkway honors
Aliquippa players received a dozen first-team spots on the Class 4A Parkway all-conference team, including six claimed by a trio of linemen honored on both sides of the ball.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: 2-way standouts lead Big Seven postseason honors
McKeesport teammates Bobbie Boyd and Jahmil Perryman were two-way stars for the Tigers this season, but they weren’t the only players in the Class 4A Big Seven pulling double duty.
Former North Allegheny star Ayden Owens runner-up for top college track award
December 15, 2022
North Allegheny graduate and Arkansas decathlete Ayden Owens-Delerme was the runner-up for college track and field’s top honor Thursday night.
Woodland Hills seeks to replace football coach Tim Bostard
After 22 years of coaching Woodland Hills football, first as an assistant and later head coach, Tim Bostard says he often joked that he’d be there until they kicked him out.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: North Allegheny coach Art Walker joins 9 players on 6A team
December 14, 2022
The WPIAL classification for the biggest schools was the league’s smallest overall with only five teams.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Penn-Trafford has 7 spots on Big East 1st team
Penn-Trafford’s size up front was a strength this season and opposing coaches recognized that group favorably when voting for the all-conference team.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Penn Hills, Pine-Richland lead Class 5A Northeast honors
The playoff race in the Northeast was among the most competitive in the WPIAL, depth that showed in the all-conference team.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Upper St. Clair places 10 on Allegheny Six team
Upper St. Clair’s Aidan Besselman and Mark Banbury earned first-team honors on both sides of the ball, helping the Panthers claim 10 spots on the Allegheny Six all-conference team.
Former Gateway star Derrick Davis announces plans to transfer from LSU
December 12, 2022
Former Gateway standout Derrick Davis, the TribLive HSSN Football Player of the Year in 2019, has announced plans to transfer from LSU.
Belle Vernon sees no ‘racial intent’ by football players in controversial social media video
The Belle Vernon football players involved in a controversial social media video weren’t trying to racially taunt anyone, said the school’s top administrator, but they will face consequences for including a racial slur.
PIAA wants investigation into signs, video targeting Westinghouse football team
December 10, 2022
The PIAA has directed the Southern Columbia administration to investigate allegations of racist taunts involving signs and a social media video targeting Westinghouse’s football team.
After 7-year hiatus, Jamie Kyriazis returns to coach North Allegheny wrestling team
Timing is important in wrestling.
Pine-Richland stuns Imhotep Charter in PIAA Class 5A final on Ryan Palmieri’s big night
December 9, 2022
MECHANICSBURG — Pine-Richland quarterbacks sure have a knack for big performances in the biggest games, a history that includes Ben DiNucci, Phil Jurkovec and Cole Spencer.
Westinghouse’s hopes of state championship dashed by Southern Columbia in Class 2A final
MECHANICSBURG — Westinghouse fairy-tale ending was spoiled by a team that’s very familiar with being cast as the villain in the state football championships.
Westinghouse welcomes underdog role in PIAA finals against 12-time champion Southern Columbia
Westinghouse coach Donta Green gathers his football players after each practice and every game for a session he calls highs and shout-outs.
Bishop McDevitt punishes Aliquippa for mistakes in PIAA Class 4A title game
December 8, 2022
MECHANICSBURG — In the state football championships, against a quarterback with major-college talent and an opponent seeking redemption, there’s very little room for error.
Union playoff run ends with loss to Steelton-Highspire in PIAA Class A football final
MECHANICSBURG – Union could see the end zone all afternoon, but didn’t get there enough.
Defending state champion Aliquippa draws PIAA finals rematch with Bishop McDevitt
Aliquippa started a sophomore at quarterback and a freshman at running back in the state finals last season while opponent Bishop McDevitt had a freshman behind center that day.
Trib HSSN high school football state rankings for Dec. 7, 2022
The PIAA football playoffs are down to 12 teams as the season approaches the final weekend.
Plans to expand, strengthen PIAA competitive-balance rule rejected by board
December 7, 2022
MECHANICSBURG — Plans to revamp the competitive-balance formula were rejected Wednesday by the PIAA board, meaning only football and basketball teams are still impacted by the rule — and only those that add too many transfers.
After PIAA approves NIL policy, Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher quickly adds 1st deal
MECHANICSBURG — The vote was only a couple of hours old when Laurel Highlands senior Rodney Gallagher announced the first NIL deal for a PIAA athlete.
PIAA concerned with rising ejection rates among boys soccer players, coaches
December 5, 2022
The PIAA was optimistic that the rising number of player and coach ejections would subside statewide after adding a two-game suspension in 2020 for the most egregious unsportsmanlike acts.
Westinghouse ends City League’s 25-year wait, tops Steel Valley to reach state finals
December 2, 2022
No City League football team has reached the state finals in 25 years, but Westinghouse is headed there next week.
In storied Aliquippa football history, could these Quips show they’re best with another PIAA title?
December 1, 2022
There’s always room to debate which Aliquippa football team was the best in school history.
Central Catholic football coach Terry Totten resigns after 18 seasons, 6 WPIAL titles
When Central Catholic football coach Terry Totten officially met with his players one final time Thursday, he showed them the watch on his wrist and told them how it just keeps ticking.
Pine-Richland draws PIAA semifinal opponent that rarely passes
The football itself is usually an essential piece of practice equipment, but when Pine-Richland’s scout-team offense took the field this week, coach Jon LeDonne had the group run plays without one.
Trib HSSN High School Football State Rankings for Nov. 29, 2022
November 29, 2022
The favorites remain alive in the state playoffs.
Imani Christian transfers eligible for basketball season after PIAA overturns WPIAL decisions
November 28, 2022
Imani Christian transfers Robert Sledge and Kylan Holmes are now eligible to play basketball this winter after the PIAA overturned earlier decisions by the WPIAL.
PIAA announces semifinal sites, times for state football playoffs
November 27, 2022
The Pine-Richland football team has a two-hour bus ride this weekend and Aliquippa has a three-hour trip ahead. That often comes with reaching the state semifinals.
Westinghouse shuts down Farrell, sets up PIAA semifinal showdown with WPIAL champion
November 26, 2022
Westinghouse fans have a variety of chants and cheers, but “go defense go” seemed to have a little extra enthusiasm Saturday afternoon at Cupples Stadium.
Aliquippa rolls past Central Valley to capture 19th WPIAL football title
November 25, 2022
Aliquippa’s Tiqwai Hayes landed in the end zone after leaping headfirst over his linemen, but the running back was quickly airborne again when guard Neco Eberhardt celebrated by lifting the sophomore off his feet.
2022 WPIAL 4A football championship breakdown: Aliquippa vs. Central Valley
WPIAL Class 4A football championship
2022 WPIAL 3A football championship breakdown: Belle Vernon vs. Avonworth
November 24, 2022
WPIAL Class 3A football championship
2022 WPIAL 2A football championship breakdown: Steel Valley vs. Beaver Falls
WPIAL Class 2A football championship
2022 WPIAL A football championship breakdown: Bishop Canevin vs. Union
WPIAL Class A football championship
Thanksgiving Day practice now annual tradition for WPIAL 4A finalists Central Valley, Aliquippa
How many folks are coming to Thanksgiving dinner? Central Valley’s Bret FitzSimmons expected to eat turkey with around 70 friends.
Trib HSSN High School Football State Rankings for Nov. 22, 2022
November 22, 2022
There’s a new No. 1 team in Class 2A.
PIAA announces quarterfinal sites, times for state football playoffs
November 20, 2022
WPIAL Class 5A champion Pine-Richland will host a state quarterfinal in the PIAA football playoffs this week while 6A winner North Allegheny starts on the road.
North Allegheny shuts out rival Central Catholic in 2nd half to claim 5th WPIAL football title
November 19, 2022
These teams combined for one touchdown when they met eight weeks ago in a low-scoring, field-position battle between WPIAL rivals who leaned mostly on their defenses.
North Allegheny basketball teams adjust to early start to season
Starting basketball season a week earlier than usual probably doesn’t excite WPIAL coaches, but the idea of a less-compact regular season maybe does.
‘We are here:’ Aliquippa gets defensive in WPIAL semifinal victory over McKeesport
November 18, 2022
There was no tropical storm or heavy rain.
2022 WPIAL 6A football championship breakdown: North Allegheny vs. Central Catholic
WPIAL Class 6A football championship
2022 WPIAL 5A football championship breakdown: Pine-Richland vs. Upper St. Clair
WPIAL Class 5A football championship
Program-boosting coaches lead North Allegheny, Central Catholic into WPIAL Class 6A title game
Whether he deserves some credit or blame depends on your perspective, but Art Walker certainly helped set Central Catholic on a path to become a WPIAL powerhouse.
5 things to watch in Week 12 of high school football
November 17, 2022
Aliquippa is trying to reach the WPIAL football finals for the 15th year in a row, meaning some of the players on the Quips roster weren’t born the last time the team failed to get there.
Aliquippa, McKeesport collide again in WPIAL semifinals after 2OT battle last season
For a year, McKeesport has wondered what might’ve been.
5 things we learned in Week 11: Bill Cherpak joins ‘role model’ George Novak in WPIAL’s 300 club
November 13, 2022
Bill Cherpak could’ve succeeded in whatever career path he pursued, says his former high school football coach, recalling how the Steel Valley graduate already was a bright leader in those days.
WPIAL announces playoff sites for semifinal football games
November 12, 2022
The stadiums of Canon-McMillan and North Allegheny were chosen by the WPIAL to host two of the eight football semifinal matchups scheduled for Friday.
‘Down and out’ Central Catholic tops Mt. Lebanon to make 4th straight finals trip
November 11, 2022
Central Catholic wideout Peter Gonzalez missed the first three weeks of the season after knee surgery, but quarterback Payton Wehner kept throwing him passes anyway, while he worked his way back to the field.
Central Catholic is passing more than ever, yet rainstorm awaits in WPIAL semifinals
There was a new piece of equipment on the field at Central Catholic football practice this week: a five-gallon water jug.
5 things to watch in Week 11: Thomas Jefferson’s Bill Cherpak could be 4th WPIAL coach to 300 wins
Twenty-seven years ago, Thomas Jefferson started the 1995 football season with a 15-0 win over Belle Vernon behind a first-year head coach named Bill Cherpak.
WPIAL keeps football games on Friday despite rain; Westinghouse now Thursday
November 9, 2022
Don’t forget to bring an umbrella or two.
WPIAL issues split decisions on 3 Imani Christian basketball transfers
November 8, 2022
The WPIAL cleared Imani Christian transfer Damon Givner to play his sophomore basketball season with the Saints, but two others were ruled ineligible after separate hearings Tuesday in Green Tree.
WPIAL approves 2 Serra Catholic transfers after eligibility hearing
November 7, 2022
The WPIAL ruled Serra Catholic transfers Matt McNeal and David Jordan fully eligible after the sophomores attended an eligibility hearing Monday in Green Tree.
WPIAL announces sites for Friday’s round of football playoffs
November 5, 2022
The WPIAL chose Canon-McMillan and Gateway to host Class 5A semifinals Friday night.
5 things we learned in 1st round of WPIAL football playoffs
The drive home from Burgettstown to Lawrence County takes about an hour, but the Union football team had a slight detour Friday night.
New cast of characters earns more championship gold for North Allegheny cross country
North Allegheny swept the big-school WPIAL cross country team titles this fall for the fifth year in a row, adding two more banners to a long list of league championships.
Upper St. Clair stuns Gateway in WPIAL playoffs behind ‘resilient’ QB who’d lost starting job
Upper St. Clair quarterback Julian Dahlem lost his starting job last month and hadn’t attempted a pass in weeks, yet the sophomore threw a season-saving touchdown Friday night.
5 things to watch in Week 10 of high school football
November 4, 2022
In WPIAL Class 5A, is eight enough?
Upper St. Clair running back with Florida roots hopes to lead Panthers on WPIAL playoff run
An injured ankle had Jamaal Brown sidelined at this time last year, making him an unhappy spectator when Upper St. Clair lost in the first round of the playoffs.
Butler can participate in District 10 football championship after court denies PIAA request
November 3, 2022
The Butler football team will have a chance to win a District 10 championship thanks to a school district victory Thursday in court.
WPIAL rules Lincoln Park transfers eligible, requests hearings for Imani newcomers
November 2, 2022
The WPIAL cleared Lincoln Park transfers Maddie Syka and Abbi Jannuzi to play girls basketball in the regular season this winter after holding separate eligibility hearings Tuesday in Green Tree.
WPIAL purchases building with plans to relocate league office
November 1, 2022
You might say the WPIAL is transferring offices.
Week 9 surprises loomed large as WPIAL football committee paired brackets
October 30, 2022
Some folks count sheep.
‘It’s unfair to our kids,’ says Clairton coach after WPIAL denies home playoff game
October 29, 2022
Wayne Wade was already envisioning one more Friday night in Clairton under the lights and the festivities that accompany a home football game in the WPIAL playoffs.
Breaking down the 2022 WPIAL football playoffs
Class 6A
WPIAL announces 2022 football playoff pairings
Defending WPIAL champions Aliquippa and Bishop Canevin were among the six teams that earned No. 1 seeds for the upcoming football playoffs when brackets were revealed online Saturday on TribLive HSSN.
Girls wrestling moves closer to goal of being sanctioned by PIAA
Someday, the state’s best female wrestlers will be crowned PIAA champions at Giant Center in matches held alongside the boys, if advocates for the sport get their wish.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2022 football playoff pairings
The WPIAL football playoff brackets will be revealed at 2 p.m. Saturday on TribLive HSSN. In the meantime, here’s a look at what those brackets might look like, according to HSSN’s Don Rebel and Chris Harlan.
Capacity crowd sees Aliquippa defeat rival Central Valley with dominant 3rd quarter
Aliquippa’s DJ Walker saw fans standing rows deep along the fence, heard cheers of a capacity crowd and felt the excitement in the cold, October air.
Judge rules Butler football can compete in District 10 playoffs
October 28, 2022
Butler earned its biggest win of the season hours before Friday night’s football game against Latrobe.
5 things to watch in Week 9 of high school football
Almost everyone has an off year once in a while, yet Mars coach Eric Kasperowicz and North Catholic’s Pat O’Shea have never had a team miss the playoffs in their head coaching careers.
Reigning state champions Aliquippa, Central Valley clash in long-awaited Week 9 finale
October 27, 2022
Two high school communities in Beaver County had Oct. 28 marked on their calendars since late February, when the WPIAL first released this season’s football schedules.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2022 football playoff pairings
October 26, 2022
Bracketology before the playoff field is set is a curious idea.
Once a critic of PIAA competitive-balance rule, state rep from Beaver County supports overhaul
The PIAA’s plan to remove the transfer criteria from its competitive-balance formula received support Tuesday from a Beaver County legislator who was an outspoken critic of the current rule.
Football fans lining up for coveted Central Valley vs. Aliquippa tickets
October 25, 2022
The hottest ticket in Beaver County isn’t for a British pop star or an 80’s rock band back on tour.
5 things we learned in Week 8 of high school football
October 23, 2022
There were some dark days this fall for the Mohawk football program, but Saturday wasn’t one of them.
OLSH loses star QB in warmups; No. 1 Bishop Canevin clinches 1st conference title since ’11
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart’s Nehemiah Azeem is one of the WPIAL’s top passers, but 15 minutes before kickoff, the Chargers found out they wouldn’t have him in the lineup.
Trib HSSN WPIAL high school football rankings: Week ending Oct. 23, 2022
October 22, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
North Allegheny volleyball looks to finish job after unprecedented regular season dominance
North Allegheny’s girls volleyball team has won five consecutive state titles, but this year’s roster accomplished a feat none of those teams ever did. They played 16 matches this fall and didn’t lose single set — winning them all 3-0.
Central Catholic’s young playmakers lead playoff-clinching win over Seneca Valley
Central Catholic could’ve accepted a penalty for an out-of-bound kickoff and taken the ball at the 35-yard line, but instead told Seneca Valley to re-kick.
5 things to watch in Week 8 of high school football
October 21, 2022
It’s hard to be perfect.
Preseason WPIAL favorites Central Catholic, Seneca Valley now fighting for playoff lives
October 20, 2022
Seneca Valley and Central Catholic were picked as preseason favorites to meet in the WPIAL Class 6A championship before anyone had played a game.
9 WPIAL coaches earn statewide award from PIAA
October 18, 2022
Nine WPIAL coaches were name state coaches of the year by the PIAA for the 2021-22 school year.
WPIAL board increases to 21 seats with diversity advisory council addition
The WPIAL board has expanded to 21 members with the addition of a seat for a representative from the WPIAL Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Council.
PIAA’s reps from WPIAL split on future of competitive-balance rule
October 17, 2022
The WPIAL has three seats on the PIAA board, and its representatives usually vote together, but that didn’t happen when asked about making major changes to the state’s competitive-balance rule.
5 things we learned in Week 7: Central Catholic blocked FG touchdown scorer: ‘I heard no whistle’
October 15, 2022
As a 6-foot-4, 270-pound offensive lineman, Anthony Shovlin says he’d accepted the fact that scoring touchdowns wasn’t in his future, but that changed dramatically Friday night.
TribLive HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 16, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
North Allegheny athletic director concerned by changing definition of amateurism
A groundbreaking name, image and likeness policy proposed by the PIAA cleared a second hurdle this month, meaning Pennsylvania high school athletes soon could be eligible to make money from NIL deals this winter.
Armstrong’s Cadin Olsen capitalizes on Mars’ mistakes in high-scoring Greater Allegheny win
Giving Armstrong quarterback Cadin Olsen short fields, time to pass and extra possessions is a dangerous combination.
5 things to watch in Week 7 of high school football
October 14, 2022
Football coaches will always say Week 7 isn’t the time for nonconference games, since the playoffs are less than a month away and nobody wants to get hurt now in a “meaningless” game.
PIAA rule keeps OLSH football team idle Friday night after Avella forfeits
October 13, 2022
Avella doesn’t have enough healthy players available for this week’s football game against Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, so the Eagles will forfeit the Class A Black Hills Conference contest scheduled for Friday night.
Philadelphia Catholic League teams no longer block WPIAL’s path to PIAA basketball finals
The marquee matchup of state championship weekend became an all-Philadelphia Catholic League affair when Roman Catholic and Archbishop Wood met in Hershey last winter for the Class 6A boys basketball final.
Narrow vote keeps alive potential overhaul of PIAA competitive-balance rule
October 12, 2022
MECHANICSBURG — The PIAA competitive-balance rule was originally created to measure postseason success and transfers, but that formula could change significantly this winter.
NIL policy for Pa. high school athletes clears 2nd hurdle, could be finalized in December
October 11, 2022
MECHANICSBURG — One of Western Pennsylvania’s largest hospital networks had to revamp an advertising campaign that featured WPIAL athletes after the PIAA pointed out the ads violated its rules.
5 things we learned in Week 6: Some teams clinching already
October 8, 2022
It’s too early to start mapping playoff scenarios for most WPIAL football teams, but a select few already have won their way in.
Trib HSSN football rankings for Oct. 9, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
New faces take center ice for perennially powerful North Allegheny hockey program
North Allegheny always had a few familiar names among its top six forwards in recent years, experienced scorers who were there for multiple seasons. Yet, the Tigers are entering a winter of change.
Bethel Park’s offense plays keep away in win over No. 1 Upper St. Clair
October 7, 2022
“The most average line you’ve ever seen.”
5 things to watch in Week 6 of high school football
This could be a make-or-break week for some teams with conference title hopes.
Bethel Park, Upper St. Clair renew rivalry ranked 1st, 2nd in WPIAL Class 5A
October 6, 2022
Bethel Park and Upper St. Clair have combined for a few dramatic regular-season finales in recent years, but WPIAL schedule makers decided there’s no need to wait.
1st-time winners Beaver, Ligonier Valley among WPIAL Sportsmanship Award recipients
October 5, 2022
First-time winners Beaver and Ligonier Valley were among five schools named Wednesday as recipients of the annual WPIAL Sportsmanship Award.
5 things we learned in Week 5: Rodney Gallagher makes history again
October 1, 2022
Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher was 0-3 against conference foe Thomas Jefferson, and his Mustangs were outscored 160-3 in the first three years of his high school football career.
TribLive HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 2, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
North Allegheny embraces being viewed as underdog, now leads Class 6A
Saying the biggest high school in Western Pennsylvania was overlooked might seem unlikely, but when football season started, North Allegheny’s players didn’t hear much talk about themselves.
Brad Birch leads Gateway to rout of previously unbeaten Hempfield
September 30, 2022
Would anyone have been surprised if Gateway quarterback Brad Birch crashed the halftime homecoming ceremony, took the blue-and-white balloons and named himself Hempfield’s king?
5 things to watch in Week 5 of high school football
In an ultra-competitive Class 5A, Bethel Park, Hempfield and Upper St. Clair are the only WPIAL teams that haven’t lost to a 5A opponent yet this season — a list that keeps getting shorter.
WPIAL rules East Allegheny transfer eligible for regular-season football but not playoffs
September 27, 2022
East Allegheny junior Amir Rollins, a transfer from Penn Hills, is allowed to play football in the regular season, but he remains ineligible for the playoffs, the WPIAL ruled Tuesday.
5 things we learned in Week 4: WPIAL upstarts winning over their doubters
September 24, 2022
The last time Mapletown started a season 5-0, longtime Maples coach George Messich was in middle school and the team’s quarterback was an older boy who lived next door.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 25, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
Talented sophomores pacing defending PIAA champion North Allegheny cross country teams
At this time of year, North Allegheny’s cross country team doesn’t talk much about winning championships, even if the boys and girls are both defending state champs.
North Allegheny tops Central Catholic in low-scoring defensive battle
September 23, 2022
North Allegheny’s Campbell Melzer was upset with himself after missing a tackle on a fourth-quarter hitch route that put Central Catholic in scoring position for a late touchdown.
5 things to watch in Week 4 of high school football
It wasn’t too long ago that West Allegheny was the team to beat in the Parkway Conference, back before the Indians made the jump to 5A.
Westinghouse cements itself as City League favorite with 38-7 win over Allderdice
Keyshawn Morsillo threw three touchdowns Thursday night and helped Westinghouse solidified itself as the team to beat in the City League with a 38-7 victory over Allderdice at Cupples Stadium.
Central Catholic, North Allegheny battle for edge in WPIAL’s unpredictable Class 6A
September 22, 2022
After watching the first few weeks, Central Catholic coach Terry Totten suggests a new plan for finding the best team in 6A.
WPIAL hopes ticket trend continues after topping $2 million in revenue last school year
September 19, 2022
The WPIAL sold more than $2 million in tickets last school year, a jump from recent pre-pandemic days that has the league in solid financial shape.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 17, 2022
September 17, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
5 things we learned in Week 3 of high school football
Pick a word: Unpredictable? Competitive? Chaotic?
Despite revamped roster, North Allegheny girls soccer again off to strong start
The North Allegheny girls soccer team had six starting spots open this season, more than half of the lineup, but what the Tigers also had was depth.
Peters Township overcomes 5 turnovers to defeat South Fayette in Allegheny Six opener
September 16, 2022
Peters Township freshman Reston Lehman scored his first two career touchdowns a minute apart Friday night, one to tie and one to take the lead as the Indians defeated South Fayette, 42-28, in an Allegheny Six opener filled with unpredictable moments.
1st-year QBs lead Peters Township, South Fayette into Allegheny Six opener
T.J. Plack handed the key for Peters Township’s offense to a first-year starting quarterback and told him to drive.
5 things to watch in Week 3 of high school football
Ready or not, it’s conference time.
PIAA puts NIL debate on hold until October
September 14, 2022
A groundbreaking Name, Image and Likeness policy proposed by the PIAA must pass three separate votes to take effect, but that second vote won’t happen this week as initially thought.
Five things we learned in Week 2: WPIAL’s longest losing streak is over
September 10, 2022
Team captains Aaron Hobel and Brighton Mariacher are fourth-year players on Ellwood City’s football team, yet their senior class never had celebrated a win.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 10, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
New coach overhauls boys soccer program at ‘University of North Allegheny’
As a soccer coach who’d reached the college ranks, Manuel Montero wasn’t interested in coaching high school soccer again, but North Allegheny’s unofficial nickname intrigued him.
Penn Hills’ Amir Key scores 3 times in victory over Pine-Richland and his former coach
September 9, 2022
Jon LeDonne spent five seasons building Penn Hills into a big-play dynamo and saw that explosive energy work against his new team Friday night.
What to watch in Week 2: WPIAL’s top passing attack has showdown with Clairton
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart quarterback Nehemiah Azeem has already thrown for almost 700 yards and ranks as the top passer in the WPIAL, but his coach knows what skeptics are probably saying.
Conference opener takes Pine-Richland coach Jon LeDonne back to Penn Hills
September 7, 2022
Yuhas-McGinley Stadium holds fond memories for Jon LeDonne, but what kind of welcome will he receive there Friday night when he’s wearing green instead of the home team’s red and gold?
Hampton transfer Peter Kramer ineligible for basketball playoffs
September 6, 2022
Hampton transfer Peter Kramer, a standout shooting guard who won a WPIAL basketball title at Shady Side Academy, is ineligible for the playoffs this winter.
What we learned in Week 1: New WPIAL approach leads to competitive schedule
September 3, 2022
This was the most competitive Week 1 in recent WPIAL history, but that probably wasn’t a coincidence.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 4, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
Schedule toughens for 5-time defending PIAA champion North Allegheny girls volleyball team
Section 1 is smaller this season, so the North Allegheny girls volleyball team had to fill some open dates on its schedule.
Steel Valley’s Cruce Brookins follows big blockers in run-heavy win over Sto-Rox
Cruce Brookins predicts that he and Steel Valley teammate Greg Smith could be crashing into one another on a college field in a year or two.
What to watch in Week 1: Laurel Highlands vs. Belle Vernon matches 2 top college recruits
September 2, 2022
Don’t be surprised if a few college coaches make an appearance at Belle Vernon’s football stadium.
Week 1 clash between Sto-Rox, Steel Valley comes 10 months later than they’d hoped
September 1, 2022
Steel Valley’s Cruce Brookins watched maybe a few minutes of last year’s WPIAL Class 2A final. Sto-Rox’s Josh Jenkins couldn’t stomach watching any.
Mohawk cancels Week 1 football game, Quaker Valley seeks new opponent
August 29, 2022
Mohawk canceled its football game for the second week in a row as authorities investigate hazing allegations involving the team.
Five things we learned from Week Zero of WPIAL football
August 27, 2022
When the Woodland Hills defense made a valiant goal-line stand in the fourth quarter Saturday, the result was a win for the Wolverines but also a much-needed win for WPIAL football.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Aug. 28, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
Brad Birch perseveres in pressure-packed opener, lifting Gateway past Mt. Lebanon
Fourth-and-20 is a pressure situation no quarterback wants, but Brad Birch knew where the ball needed to go.After 6 years, 6-classification format still has pros, cons for WPIAL football teams
August 26, 2022
Six for six.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.After 6 years, 6-classification format still has pros, cons for WPIAL football teams
August 25, 2022
Six for six.After 6 years, 6-classification format still has pros, cons for WPIAL football teams
Six for six.
After 6 years, 6-classification format still has pros, cons for WPIAL football teams
Six for six.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the specialists
August 24, 2022
A remarkable WPIAL record is about to turn 20.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the safeties
August 23, 2022
Safety is often the last line of defense, but having a good one can be a weapon for any team.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the cornerbacks
Western Pennsylvania football was always known for its quarterbacks and linemen, but that’s changed in recent decades.
WPIAL title contender Clairton somehow flying under radar
August 22, 2022
Remember Clairton?
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the linebackers
Brashear’s Ta’Mere Robinson is certainly one of the best linebackers in Western Pennsylvania. He’s one of the best in the country. But the Penn State recruit is still recovering from knee surgery, so there’s a good chance he won’t play his senior year.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the defensive line
August 21, 2022
The athletes who play defensive line are maybe the most varied of any group in high school football.
WPIAL Class 5A football breakdown: Gateway among teams trying to squeeze into tight playoff field
August 20, 2022
Earning a WPIAL playoff spot in Class 5A was never easy, but the task becomes a little harder this year.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the offensive line
August 19, 2022
High school football teams deploy a variety of offensive schemes, from no-huddle spreads to the wing-T.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the tight ends
August 18, 2022
The storied history of WPIAL football often focuses on its legendary quarterbacks and, more recently, a string of standout defensive backs.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the wide receivers
August 17, 2022
How’s this for a good quarterback-receiver combination?
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs
August 16, 2022
Take a look at the WPIAL rushing leaders from last season and you’ll notice four state champions.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks
The race for the 2021 WPIAL passing title was a three-way battle between Gateway’s Brad Birch, Beaver Falls’ Jaren Brickner and Armstrong’s Cadin Olsen.
WPIAL reveals fall championship sites: football finals at Acrisure Stadium, Norwin
August 15, 2022
The WPIAL has chosen Norwin to host the Class 5A and 6A football finals, the two championship games that won’t be played at Acrisure Stadium this year.
Mars slowly but surely acclimating to coach Eric Kasperowicz’s system
August 14, 2022
A new coach, a new quarterback and a new playbook.
With 3rd straight WPIAL title secured, Central Valley’s goals don’t change
August 13, 2022
The Heinz Field clock was ticking down last fall on Central Valley’s third consecutive WPIAL title when coach Mark Lyons was approached by longtime assistant Shawn McCreary.
Expectations soar as defending state champ Aliquippa brings back loaded roster
After winning WPIAL and state championships, expectations couldn’t be any higher for an Aliquippa football team that brings almost everyone back.
Woodland Hills still running with the big dogs in Class 5A
August 12, 2022
Woodland Hills could’ve dropped down two classifications this season because of a statewide change in how enrollment numbers are counted, but the Wolverines declined.
Bolstered by improved offensive line, Gateway builds confidence for run at WPIAL title
August 11, 2022
Gateway’s offensive line was pushed around at times last season by some of the best defensive fronts in the WPIAL, but the Gators say they’re ready to bite back.
South Fayette looks to turn hard-luck losses into conference wins
August 10, 2022
There was a zero in the wins column, but South Fayette’s conference record didn’t tell the entire story.
Short on seniors, Peters Township looks for next wave to take over
Senior night promises to be a short affair at Peters Township.
New football coach Eric Kasperowicz wants to repeat Pine-Richland success at Mars
August 8, 2022
Last names were written on strips of tape and stuck to the forehead of Mars football helmets, a tool to help new coach Eric Kasperowicz and his assistants learn the names a little quicker.
Countdown to kickoff 2022: Cumberland Valley out to show it’s the right site (at the right price) for PIAA finals
August 4, 2022
When the PIAA awarded the state football championships to Cumberland Valley, the sudden exit from Hersheypark Stadium caught most by surprise.
WPIAL rules Thomas Jefferson QB ineligible, approves 2 South Fayette transfers
August 1, 2022
Thomas Jefferson quarterback Luke Kosko, a transfer from Seton LaSalle, was ruled ineligible for the upcoming football season after a hearing Monday with the WPIAL board.
Former WPIAL director organizes P3R youth track event at RMU Island Sports Center
Put away the stopwatches.
Summer camp success has Seneca Valley linebacker Chris D’Appolonia committed to ‘dream school’
July 31, 2022
A broken hand sidelined Seneca Valley linebacker Chris D’Appolonia for a couple of weeks last season and limited his game film, so he was determined this summer to show recruiters his full potential.
As Brashear’s other D1 linebacker, Kameron Cheatom ready to make a name for himself
July 28, 2022
On many other football teams, Kameron Cheatom would be the most talked about player on the roster. At Brashear, that title rightfully belongs to teammate Ta’Mere Robinson, the top-ranked recruit in Pennsylvania.
WPIAL approves extra year of eligibility for Aliquippa athlete injured in shooting
July 25, 2022
The WPIAL approved an extra year of eligibility for Aliquippa’s Antonyo “Sunny” Anderson, a multi-sport athlete who was seriously injured in a shooting 14 months ago.
Former North Allegheny decathlete Ayden Owens-Delerme finishes 4th at World Championships
Since his days running track at North Allegheny, Ayden Owens-Delerme has talked about winning world titles and Olympic medals. This weekend, the NCAA champion decathlete made his World Championships debut and proved those dreams aren’t too far off.
Q&A with new WPIAL executive director Scott Seltzer
July 24, 2022
Scott Seltzer had decided his time with the WPIAL was ending this summer after 13 years on the board and six as board president.
WPIAL administrator: High school NIL deals could lead to manipulation
July 19, 2022
Name, Image and Likeness deals could improve the lives of some high school athletes, but there’s also real concern about manipulation by misguided adults, says the WPIAL’s top administrator.
St. Louis Cardinals draft former Allderdice pitcher Tanner Jacobson in 10th round
Allderdice graduate Tanner Jacobson on Monday became the first player in the short history of Queens University baseball to be picked in the MLB Draft.
Baltimore Orioles draft former Canon-McMillan pitcher Cameron Weston
July 18, 2022
Former Canon-McMillan star Cameron Weston, who helped win WPIAL and PIAA baseball titles in 2018, was selected Monday in the eighth round of the MLB Draft by the Baltimore Orioles.
Seattle Mariners select North Allegheny’s Cole Young in 1st round of MLB Draft
July 17, 2022
Cole Young was introduced to the baseball world as an MLB Pitch, Hit & Run winner in 2014, hinting then that the 10-year-old from Franklin Park might have a bright future ahead.
Amazing year for North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens-Delerme continues at World Championships
July 16, 2022
Ayden Owens-Delerme appears nowadays on TV commercials in Arkansas for a local hospital system, but the recent NCAA decathlon champion is ready to take his track talents global.
TribLive HSSN Preseason Football All-Stars gather, excited for fresh faces
July 15, 2022
Armstrong quarterback Cadin Olsen is a three-year starter, but like many football players across the WPIAL, the senior has a little sense of unfamiliarity heading into the fall.
Brashear linebacker Ta’Mere Robinson chooses Penn State after Nittany Lions ‘stuck with me’
While on his official visit to Penn State, Ta’Mere Robinson had dinner with other recruits and each was asked to stand and introduce himself. Caught up in the moment, the Brashear senior admits he nearly got carried away.
PIAA may strengthen competitive-balance rule by adding all team sports, removing transfers
July 14, 2022
The PIAA appears ready to rewrite its competitive-balance rule to include all team sports while also making it easier to force successful teams into a higher classification.
MLB Draft ‘starting to feel real’ for North Allegheny’s Cole Young
Rather than fly to Los Angeles, Cole Young will spend Sunday closer to home, watching the MLB Draft on television, maybe from his house in Franklin Park. The recent North Allegheny graduate was invited to attend draft festivities on the West Coast, but the likely first-round pick wasn’t lured by the bright lights.
PIAA moves closer to allowing NIL deals for high school athletes
July 13, 2022
Local TV commercials might feature high school football players or a popular basketball star could sell ads on social media.
No more ‘Highway to Heinz,’ but WPIAL plans to hold 4 football finals at Acrisure Stadium
July 11, 2022
The WPIAL football playoffs no longer can be called the “Highway to Heinz,” but the league plans to use the newly named North Shore stadium again this fall for some of its high school football championships.
16-time WPIAL champion boys volleyball coach Dan Schall steps down at North Allegheny
July 9, 2022
Walking away from a defending state champion can be a tough call for a coach, but North Allegheny’s Dan Schall found it “maybe a bit easier” after winning four in a row the way his Tigers just did.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Aliquippa’s Tiqwai Hayes
July 5, 2022
Editor’s note: The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Penn Hills’ Julian Dugger
July 4, 2022
Editor’s note: The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Fox Chapel’s Eli Yofan named 2021-22 Trib HSSN Boys Athlete of the Year
As Eli Yofan celebrated on the 18th green at Cedarbrook Golf Course last fall, a thought unrelated to golf came into his head. He’d just shot a 1-under par round, leading Fox Chapel to a WPIAL team title, but his mind was already on winter.
Armstrong quarterback Cadin Olsen commits to Ivy League school
July 1, 2022
Armstrong’s Cadin Olsen, a dual-threat quarterback and one of the WPIAL’s top passers, committed Friday to Penn.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Aliquippa’s Cameron Lindsey
Editor’s note: The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Beaver’s Payton List, Mt. Lebanon’s Deirdre Flaherty top all-state softball awards
June 30, 2022
Mt. Lebanon catcher Deirdre Flaherty and Beaver pitcher Payton List topped the list of players earning all-state honors Thursday from the Pennsylvania High School Softball Coaches Association.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher
June 29, 2022
Editor’s note: The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
2022 Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year: Bethel Park’s Evan Holewinski
June 27, 2022
2022 Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year
2022 TribLive HSSN Softball All-Stars
June 26, 2022
In WPIAL softball, there’s no requirement for underclassmen to wait their turn.
2022 TribLive HSSN Baseball All-Stars
This was a good year around the WPIAL for dominant pitchers and slick-fielding shortstops.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: North Allegheny’s Tyree Alualu
June 24, 2022
Editor’s note: The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Evan Holewinski pitches 3-hitter, Bethel Park wins back-to-back PIAA titles
June 17, 2022
UNIVERSITY PARK — Rarely does a WPIAL baseball team have a chance to win consecutive state titles, so Bethel Park tried to remember and repeat everything that worked a year ago.
7th-inning rally lifts Montour baseball to 1st state championship
June 16, 2022
UNIVERSITY PARK — This was a scene Montour senior Ryan Gallagher and his teammates had thought about for years, one where they’re together at Penn State celebrating a state baseball championship on the infield grass.
WPIAL notebook: Class 4A boys basketball crowded with champions after realignment
June 13, 2022
Lincoln Park and North Catholic have met in the WPIAL boys basketball finals four times in the past six seasons, but they won’t wait that long to face one another again.
WPIAL approves new basketball sections without addressing public-private concerns
The WPIAL considered some radical ideas such as splitting public and private school basketball teams into separate sections, but ultimately decided that’s a debate for another day.
Thomas Jefferson’s Jordan Mayer commits to Wisconsin
About two months after restarting his recruiting process, Thomas Jefferson’s Jordan Mayer committed Sunday to Wisconsin.
Schalls share final memorable season with North Allegheny boys volleyball
June 11, 2022
Caleb Schall comes from a family where his parents and two uncles played college volleyball, his grandfather won state volleyball titles as a high school coach and his dad now leads powerhouse North Allegheny.
North Allegheny boys volleyball draws PIAA championship rematch with Central Dauphin
June 10, 2022
Some things seem to never change.
Bethel Park eliminates West Allegheny, keeps alive hopes for PIAA championship repeat
June 9, 2022
Bethel Park has seen this story before: The baseball team comes up short in the WPIAL playoffs only to bounce back stronger in the state tournament behind a talented pitcher recruited to Kent State.
Don’t blame ‘WPIAL hangover’ for this PIAA 1st-round loss, says Mt. Lebanon coach
June 6, 2022
The Mt. Lebanon baseball team was on the practice field for a rare early-morning, split-squad scrimmage Saturday, just a few days after winning the WPIAL title. The Blue Devils had six days to get ready for their state playoff opener and tried to use them to their fullest.
Neshannock tops Frazier in WPIAL championship clash of undefeated 2A teams
June 3, 2022
Whenever a Neshannock batter stepped into the Lilley Field batter’s box Friday, a peculiar shout sometimes came from the dugout: Smile.
WPIAL postpones Thursday softball championship games to Friday
June 2, 2022
The WPIAL took a look at the weather forecast and decided to postpone its three softball finals from Thursday to Friday.
West Allegheny outlasts Peters Township to win school’s 5th WPIAL championship
June 1, 2022
Not much has come easy this season for West Allegheny, a team that battled through injuries and plenty of inconvenience to reach Wild Things Park.
Mt. Lebanon squeezes past Upper St. Clair for 1st WPIAL title since 2006
May 31, 2022
Mt. Lebanon waited 16 years for this celebration, so another hour and a half didn’t matter.
New Castle’s Maria Owens turns triple jump frustration into PIAA long jump gold
May 29, 2022
SHIPPENSBURG — New Castle senior Maria Owens was upset with herself a day earlier after a 17th-place finish in the triple jump, disappointed largely by a foul on a big jump.
Moon’s Mia Cochran wins unprecedented ‘triple’ at PIAA championships, celebrates team title alone
May 28, 2022
Moon Area’s Mia Cochran admits the competitor in her likes a challenge, but she hasn’t found many on the track recently.
WPIAL runners sweep 3,200-meter races at PIAA championships
SHIPPENSBURG — Eden Christian’s Sean Aiken attempted the 3,200 meters for the first time a couple of months ago, and he really didn’t like running nearly two miles.
Deer Lakes’ Carson McCoy celebrates another come-from-behind win at PIAA championships
SHIPPENSBURG — Carson McCoy apologized after his latest come-from-behind victory, knowing he’d just ruthlessly dashed the hopes of the same opponent for the third time.
Shenango thrower Emma Callahan ties shot put record at PIAA championships
SHIPPENSBURG — The target distance on Shenango thrower Emma Callahan’s mind was 50 feet, 10¾ inches, which was the state championship record for girls shot put in Class 2A.
Moon’s Mia Cochran wins 1,600 meters, wants 2 more golds at busy PIAA championship
May 27, 2022
SHIPPENSBURG — After defending her state 1,600-meter title Friday morning, Moon’s Mia Cochran revealed the top item on her afternoon agenda.
Deer Lakes’ Carson McCoy defends 1,600-meter title at PIAA championships
SHIPPENSBURG — Carson McCoy maybe isn’t a front runner, yet the Deer Lakes senior usually crosses the finish line first.
As Emma Callahan chases shot put records, spotlight shines on Shenango’s success
May 26, 2022
From Emma Callahan’s view, she’d just set a WPIAL championship record, but the Shenango shot putter also knew it’s hard to see from the circle.
Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher commits to play football at West Virginia
May 25, 2022
Keeping his family close was important to Rodney Gallagher, so he did what countless other Western Pennsylvania football recruits have done and committed to his hometown team.
Bethel Park hires former WPIAL basketball star Dante Calabria as boys coach
Dante Calabria, a former WPIAL basketball star who won a national championship at North Carolina, was hired Tuesday as boys coach at Bethel Park.
No. 1 Mt. Lebanon breaks ‘curse’ with quarterfinal win over Seneca Valley
May 23, 2022
A seventh-inning curveball glanced off Mt. Lebanon catcher Paul Connolly’s mitt and rolled away, causing a moment of panic since there was a runner on third and a one-run lead.
Pine-Richland relay sprints to school record, WPIAL gold medal
May 22, 2022
Luke Rudolph insisted he’s not as fast as the relay runner he replaced, but the results say otherwise.
North Catholic sprinter Trevor Paschall’s season in question after WPIAL championship injury
May 19, 2022
North Catholic’s Trevor Paschall is usually sprinting around the WPIAL track championships faster than most anybody, but Wednesday he accepted help from a teammate just to walk.
Moon’s Mia Cochran adding to track legacy by winning 3 WPIAL individual titles
May 18, 2022
What more could Mia Cochran have to prove?
Life journey of North Allegheny runners Wren and Robin Kucler covers thousands of miles
As an 8-year-old, Wren Kucler told her mom she wanted to run around the house 100 times. That’s a lot of running for a little girl, but her mom Deanna saw no reason to discourage her, so she said, “Go ahead. Knock yourself out.”
South Fayette’s Tyler Pitzer dazzles Franklin Regional with 5-inning perfect game
This outing was perfect for South Fayette pitcher Tyler Pitzer in more ways than one.
WPIAL hires chief operating officer to ease workload of executive director
May 16, 2022
The role of the WPIAL executive director has changed over the years, with social media bringing more and more issues to the league’s attention, said outgoing director Amy Scheuneman.
WPIAL baseball playoff bracket breakdown
May 13, 2022
Favorite: Mt. Lebanon could win its first WPIAL baseball title since 2006. The Blue Devils started this season 1-4 before finding their stride in section play behind OF Tanner Donati (.435, 20 RBIs, 12 extra-base hits). They’ve won 10 of their past 12 games, including a 2-1 victory over North Allegheny. Seniors Derrick Shields and Jack Smith combined are 7-1 with 89 Ks in 61 innings. Shields is an IUP recruit and Smith is headed to Harvard.
WPIAL announces 2022 baseball playoff brackets
Montour hasn’t won a WPIAL baseball title in 50 years, but the Spartans will start this year’s playoffs as the favorites in Class 4A.
Defending champions Beaver, West Greene among No. 1 seeds in WPIAL softball playoffs
May 12, 2022
Two undefeated teams. Two more strong section champions. A defending WPIAL champion with only three losses.
WPIAL reveals brackets for boys, girls lacrosse playoffs
The defending champion Mars boys and Shady Side Academy girls were among the four teams that earned top seeds in the WPIAL lacrosse playoff brackets revealed Thursday.
Butler boys dominate field, win WPIAL Class 3A team track title
May 11, 2022
The Butler boys arrived at the WPIAL team championships with a mission: eliminate any suspense about who might be the winner.
Tim McConnell accepts Bishop Canevin job after resigning as Chartiers Valley coach
Tim McConnell had walked into Chartiers Valley’s gym countless times, but the longtime basketball coach felt somewhat sentimental when he entered Tuesday morning.
Quaker Valley’s Adou Thiero commits to play basketball at Kentucky
May 8, 2022
Quaker Valley senior Adou Thiero committed Sunday to play basketball for Kentucky and coach John Calipari, who also coached Thiero’s father at Memphis in the early 2000s.
WPIAL trio earns all-state honors in Class 6A boys basketball
The PIAA’s largest boys basketball classification is often dominated by Eastern Pennsylvania teams, but three WPIAL players made the all-state team for Class 6A.
WPIAL Hall of Fame inductee Burke blazed trail for women’s sports in Western Pennsylvania
May 7, 2022
The WPIAL has been around for more than 100 years, but the organization was exclusively for boys until Ruth Ann Burke and some like-minded colleagues insisted that must change.
TribHSSN baseball rankings for May 8, 2022
Class 6A
Trib HSSN WPIAL softball rankings: Week ending May 8, 2022
Class 6A
‘Fearless’ Connor Smith emerges as North Allegheny’s ace
Connor Smith likes to experiment with his pitch grips, so when his favorite MLB pitcher shared a splitter setup on a podcast, the North Allegheny right-hander had to give it a try.
Rain soaks Baldwin Invitational but doesn’t dim Quaker Valley hurdler’s sunny outlook
A cold rain drenched everyone at the Baldwin Invitational, but Quaker Valley hurdler Nora Johns was among those not too bothered by the wet weather.
WPIAL lands 3 players on Class 5A all-state boys basketball team
New Castle and Laurel Highlands combined for one of the most competitive WPIAL finals in recent memory, a matchup decided in double overtime by two last-second free throws.
Quaker Valley teammates, coach Mike Mastroianni earn all-state honors in Class 4A
May 6, 2022
Adou Thiero and Markus Frank formed a dynamic duo for Quaker Valley, which celebrated the most successful boys basketball season in school history this winter.
Steel Valley’s Makhai Valentine among 4 all-state selections from WPIAL Class 3A
May 5, 2022
Steel Valley junior Makhai Valentine, who ranked among the WPIAL’s top scorers this winter, earned first-team all-state honors Thursday when the Class 3A awards were announced.
OLSH’s Jake DiMichele, coach Mike Rodriguez earn top honors on Class 2A all-state team
May 4, 2022
Jake DiMichele went three years without a loss as Our Lady of the Sacred Heart won its second state title this winter and tied a state record with a 68-game winning streak in a historic season. DiMichele, a senior, finished his high school career as the second-leading scorer in WPIAL history with 2,642 points.
No shot clock for Pennsylvania high schools, says PIAA basketball committee
May 3, 2022
Time is running out for shot clock advocates.
WPIAL postpones team track semifinals to Wednesday
The WPIAL postponed its team track semifinals to Wednesday because of an unfavorable weather forecast Tuesday that included afternoon rain and possible thunderstorms.
Bishop Canevin teammates, coach Gino Palmosina earn Class A boys basketball all-state honors
Bishop Canevin celebrated the school’s first boys basketball state title this winter and the Crusaders were rewarded for that accomplishment again Tuesday.
All-state boys basketball teams to be announced this week starting with non-PIAA schools
May 2, 2022
The boys basketball all-state teams will be announced one classification per day this week starting with non-PIAA schools.
Trib HSSN WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending May 1, 2022
Class 6A
North Allegheny, 5 other schools join Steelers-sponsored girls flag football league
There’s a new high school football league in Western Pennsylvania sponsored by the Pittsburgh Steelers and created entirely for girls.
21 WPIAL girls basketball players earn all-state honors, Neshannock’s Luann Grybowski named top coach
April 28, 2022
Twenty-one WPIAL girls basketball players earned all-state honors Thursday, and Neshannock’s Luann Grybowski was named Class 2A Coach of the Year after leading the Lancers to a state championship this winter.
Former South Fayette softball player Lauren Bernett dies
April 26, 2022
The James Madison softball program Tuesday was mourning the death of sophomore catcher Lauren Bernett, a South Fayette graduate who helped the Dukes reach the College World Series a year ago.
WPIAL hires board president Scott Seltzer as executive director
April 25, 2022
WPIAL board president Scott Seltzer will take over as executive director this summer, replacing outgoing director Amy Scheuneman as the league’s top administrator.
Pitt, Penn State, WVU among college finalists for Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher
April 24, 2022
Pitt, Penn State and West Virginia remain in the hunt for Laurel Highland’s Rodney Gallagher, the state’s top football recruit in the 2023 class.
TribHSSN WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 24, 2022
Class 6A
Gino Palmosina resigns at Canevin weeks after winning PIAA boys basketball title
April 22, 2022
Boys basketball coach Gino Palmosina is a candidate for a job elsewhere, so he resigned Thursday from alma mater Bishop Canevin, where he won WPIAL and state titles this winter.
Simmering public vs. private dispute leads Bishop Canevin contingent to protest at Carlynton track meet
April 21, 2022
The always-contentious public vs. private debate usually sticks to high school football and basketball, but a track meet became the backdrop for an unprecedented student protest.
Delayed 2 years by pandemic, PIHL adds girls division for high school hockey
April 17, 2022
Morgan Black was the leading scorer on a national championship hockey team this winter, but she has never worn her high school’s logo on any jersey. That’s because for a girl to play high school hockey in Western Pennsylvania, she always had to play against the boys.
Trib HSSN baseball rankings for April 16, 2022
Class 6A
North Allegheny Athletic Hall of Fame class offers tribute to 50th anniversary of Title IX
State champion swimmer Jacquelyn Du and record-setting field hockey player Emily Humiston are among 11 individuals chosen for induction into the North Allegheny Athletic Hall of Fame this year.
WPIAL executive director Amy Scheuneman joining Pittsburgh Marathon organizer P3R
April 15, 2022
WPIAL executive director Amy Scheuneman is leaving her job as the district’s top administrator to join P3R, which organizes races in Western Pennsylvania, including the Pittsburgh Marathon.
Amy Scheuneman resigning as WPIAL executive director after spring sports championships
April 14, 2022
Amy Scheuneman’s tenure as WPIAL executive director is ending this spring after two years.
WPIAL athletic directors want basketball sections divided by ability not enrollment
What if basketball sections were determined by a team’s talent level rather than its school enrollment?
WPIAL notebook: Kiski Area doesn’t want to share section with Penn Hills
April 13, 2022
The racially charged dispute between Penn Hills and Kiski Area wasn’t resolved, so the WPIAL may keep those teams apart in future years.
WPIAL announces James Collins Scholar/Athlete Award winners
The WPIAL on Wednesday announced winners of the James Collins Scholar/Athlete Awards. This is the 31st year for the awards, which include a $1,000 scholarship for each recipient.
Mars hires former Pine-Richland football coach Eric Kasperowicz
April 12, 2022
Only four miles separate the football stadiums of Pine-Richland and Mars, but the journey that took Eric Kasperowicz from one to the other followed a winding road.
Football coach Eric Kasperowicz poised to make WPIAL return at Mars
April 11, 2022
Mars is prepared to hire football coach Eric Kasperowicz, bringing the two-time state champion coach back to the WPIAL a year after his ouster at Pine-Richland.
Trib HSSN baseball rankings for April 9, 2022
Class 6A
North Allegheny softball team confident after strong start to 2022 season
Morgan Vescovi was hired as North Allegheny’s softball coach in 2019, but counting seasons is always a tricky task because the pandemic erased 2020.
Trinity hires former Chartiers Valley football coach Dan Knause
April 8, 2022
After working five years to build up his alma mater’s football program, coach Dan Knause will take on a new project elsewhere.
Lacrosse officials demand pay increase in disruptive dispute with WPIAL schools
April 6, 2022
A number of Western Pennsylvania boys lacrosse officials are taking a timeout from working varsity games unless WPIAL schools give them a pay raise.
North Catholic hires former Pitt, Duquesne basketball assistant as athletic director
April 5, 2022
Bill Barton, a former assistant college basketball coach at Pitt and Duquesne, is returning to Western Pennsylvania as athletic director at North Catholic.
WPIAL lacrosse match rescheduled after officials decline to accept assignment
A simmering discontent by officials about pay and travel forced Trinity to reschedule a boys lacrosse game, but the WPIAL was optimistic the season won’t be disrupted by a widespread work stoppage.
Quaker Valley’s Adou Thiero named 2022 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball Player of the Year
April 4, 2022
2022 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball Player of the Year
2022 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball All-Stars | Terrific 10
This was a history-making year for WPIAL boys basketball with Our Lady of the Sacred Heart leading the way.
2022 TribLive HSSN Girls Basketball All-Stars | Terrific 10
This season marked the end of an era for some WPIAL girls basketball programs or maybe just the beginning for others.
TribHSSN softball rankings for April 2, 2022
Class 6A
With big-time talent, North Allegheny baseball team sets big goals
At least a dozen pro scouts watched North Allegheny’s baseball scrimmage, an early indication the Tigers have an eventful season ahead.
Butler files lawsuit against PIAA in fight over District 10 football playoffs
March 31, 2022
The WPIAL has no grounds to ban the Butler football team from the District 10 playoffs, says a lawsuit the school district has filed against the PIAA.
Philadelphia basketball teams are here to stay in PIAA, says District 12 chairman
Philadelphia teams joined the PIAA basketball playoffs less than two decades ago, and District 12’s top administrator says his schools are here to stay, despite any wishful thinking by opponents.
PIAA to survey schools about adding basketball shot clock in 2024
March 30, 2022
Reset the clock.
PIAA basketball committee readies for shot clock discussion this week
March 29, 2022
Shot clock or no shot clock?
Philadelphia basketball teams are here to stay in PIAA, says District 12 chairman
March 28, 2022
Philadelphia teams joined the PIAA basketball playoffs less than two decades ago, but District 12’s top administrator says his schools are here to stay, despite any wishful thinking by opponents.
Chartiers Valley football coach Dan Knause resigns after 5 seasons for job elsewhere
Chartiers Valley football coach Dan Knause is a candidate for a job elsewhere, so he resigned Monday after five seasons with the Colts.
Public school criticism of state basketball playoffs ‘sour grapes,’ says PIAA director
Traditional public schools won only two of the 12 state basketball titles celebrated this weekend in Hershey, the fewest since the PIAA expanded the sport to six classifications in 2016.
Long scoreless stretch dashes Aliquippa’s hopes for state basketball title
March 26, 2022
HERSHEY — Aliquippa reached the state finals with four sophomores in the starting lineup, and that youth maybe showed itself at the worst time.
Freedom falls to Neumann-Goretti in 1st state championship appearance
HERSHEY – Freedom wanted to win a state title in its first trip to Hershey, but the championship trophy went home with a team that already owned four.
2022 PIAA Class 3A girls basketball championship breakdown: Freedom vs. Neumann-Goretti
PIAA Class 3A girls basketball final
2022 PIAA Class 3A boys basketball championship breakdown: Aliquippa vs. Devon Prep
PIAA Class 3A boys basketball final
Nationally ranked Imhotep Charter dashes New Castle’s hopes for state championship
March 25, 2022
HERSHEY — New Castle wanted to hold for the final shot of the first half, yet Imhotep Charter grabbed a rebound, hit a buzzer-beating 3 and ran to the locker room up 11.
OLSH wins historic PIAA title, ties state record with 68 straight wins
HERSHEY — “Historic” is now the perfect word to describe Our Lady of the Sacred Heart’s dominance.
2022 PIAA Class 5A boys basketball championship breakdown: New Castle vs. Imhotep Charter
PIAA Class 5A boys basketball final
2022 PIAA Class 2A boys basketball championship breakdown: OLSH vs. Constitution
PIAA Class 2A boys basketball final
Quaker Valley falls to Philadelphia power Neumann-Goretti in state finals
March 24, 2022
HERSHEY — Adou Thiero blocked three first-quarter shots, Quaker Valley scored 11 consecutive points and the Quakers held a slim lead over an eight-time state champion.
Balanced attack earns Bishop Canevin 1st PIAA boys basketball title
HERSHEY — This state championship celebration was years in the making for Bishop Canevin, with some waiting longer than others to see the Crusaders finally win one.
2022 PIAA Class 4A boys basketball championship breakdown: Quaker Valley vs. Neumann-Goretti
PIAA Class 4A boys basketball final
Potential NFL path draws Thomas Jefferson’s Jordan Mayer to Boston College
March 23, 2022
Jordan Mayer is very good at getting his arms around quarterbacks, but when the Thomas Jefferson junior committed to Boston College, he was the one wrapped up.
PIAA semifinal win gives Aliquippa chance for rare football-basketball championship double
March 19, 2022
Aliquippa is headed to Hershey for the second time in three months, chasing after a rare football-basketball double state championship.
Rumpler 2nd-place finish at states a boon for North Allegheny girls wrestling team
North Allegheny didn’t have a girls wresting team two years ago, yet the Tigers saw a girl finish second in the state this winter.
Mike Wells shakes off sore elbow, leads New Castle to 1st PIAA finals since ’14
March 18, 2022
Mike Wells’ elbow was still hurting him, but that didn’t hide his happiness as New Castle fans rained Hershey’s Kisses on the Red Hurricanes’ postgame celebration.
PIAA reveals sites, times for state basketball semifinals
March 17, 2022
Peters Township will host a PIAA semifinal Saturday between the Chartiers Valley and McKeesport girls, one of four all-WPIAL pairings in the final four of the state basketball tournament.
Aliquippa finds ‘happy balance,’ tops Avonworth for 3rd time in PIAA quarterfinals
March 16, 2022
After missing a few long jumpers in the first quarter, Aliquippa’s D.J. Walker understood why he was being called to the bench and the junior didn’t argue.
PIAA announces sites, times for Friday’s state basketball semifinals
The PIAA chose Norwin as host site for the rematch of New Castle and Gateway, one of two all-WPIAL pairings in the state basketball semifinals.
New Castle wins ‘fist fight’ over Penn Hills in low-scoring PIAA quarterfinal
How do you describe a game with more than a dozen blocks, more than two dozen turnovers, and the first team to score 40 points won?
Gateway stuns Laurel Highlands, earns 1st appearance in state basketball semifinals
March 15, 2022
There will be a WPIAL rematch in the state semifinals, but Laurel Highlands won’t be there.
WPIAL approves new section alignment for next 2 wrestling seasons
March 14, 2022
Say goodbye to the subsections.
WPIAL rejects Butler’s compromise, leaving football team ineligible for District 10 playoffs
The WPIAL rejected a compromise offered Monday by Butler’s administration that would’ve let the school’s football team play in the District 10 playoffs for the next two seasons.
‘Relentless’ Fox Chapel tops Allderdice in PIAA battle of district champions
March 12, 2022
With only one player taller than 6-foot-2, Fox Chapel maybe doesn’t look like a team built to outrebound many opponents.
PIAA announces sites, times for Tuesday’s basketball quarterfinals
The WPIAL is guaranteed to have a boys team in the Class 5A state championship with Laurel Highlands, New Castle, Gateway and Penn Hills all reaching the quarterfinals.
Unbeaten Laurel Highlands rallies past Highlands in OT, moves into quarterfinals
March 11, 2022
Laurel Highlands celebrated its 27th consecutive win Friday night, but this victory over Highlands followed a different script than the first 26.
PIAA girls basketball sites, times set for 2nd round playoff games
March 10, 2022
Section foes South Fayette and Moon will meet for the third time this season Saturday in a PIAA second-round playoff game at Peters Township.
PIAA announces playoff sites, times for boys basketball 2nd round
Peters Township will host a clash of champions Saturday when WPIAL champion Fox Chapel faces City League champion Allderdice in the PIAA boys basketball playoffs.
Allderdice advances in PIAA playoffs with overtime win against Central Catholic
March 9, 2022
Mike Quigley has a favorite rim in Allderdice’s gym, one that he’s found is a little softer than the other.
Penn Hills refuses to play Kiski Area sports teams this spring over alleged racial taunts
Penn Hills won’t play games against Kiski Area teams this spring because of racial taunts allegedly made by fans during a recent middle school volleyball game.
PIAA releases sites, times for Friday 2nd-round basketball playoff games
The PIAA released sites and times for second-round matchups in the state basketball playoff scheduled for Friday.
‘Special run’ might await Quaker Valley after PIAA 1st-round win over Hickory
March 8, 2022
The Hickory boys basketball team was in Hershey last winter, playing at Giant Center with a chance to win a state championship.
After incident in WPIAL semifinals, should postgame handshake lines continue?
March 7, 2022
Should handshake lines disappear from the WPIAL?
Sites, times revealed for 2022 PIAA girls basketball 1st-round playoff games
March 6, 2022
The PIAA on Sunday posted sites and times for first-round games in the state girls basketball playoffs. Here’s a list of games involving WPIAL and City League teams.
PIAA announces sites, times for 2022 boys basketball 1st-round playoff games
The PIAA on Sunday posted sites and times for first-round games in the state boys basketball playoffs. Here’s a list of games involving WPIAL and City League teams.
Fox Chapel stuns top-seeded North Hills to win 1st WPIAL title in 45 years
March 5, 2022
Eli Yofan celebrated with the WPIAL trophy in his hands Saturday night, but he also acknowledged the fingerprints his teammates left all over this championship win.
2022 WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball championship breakdown: North Hills vs. Fox Chapel
WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball
2022 WPIAL Class 2A boys basketball championship breakdown: OLSH vs. Fort Cherry
WPIAL Class 2A boys basketball
Rodney Gallagher’s free throws in final second of double OT lift Laurel Highlands past New Castle in WPIAL Class 5A final
March 4, 2022
Same arena. Same prize. There was a little less time on the clock when Rodney Gallagher walked to the foul line this year, but he made sure the outcome was also exactly the same.
2022 WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship breakdown: Laurel Highlands vs. New Castle
No. 1 Laurel Highlands vs. No. 2 New Castle
2022 WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball championship breakdown: Shady Side Academy vs. Avonworth
No. 3 Shady Side Academy vs. No. 8 Avonworth
Adou Thiero seals victory as Quaker Valley edges Montour for WPIAL Class 4A title
March 3, 2022
Adou Thiero endured the pain of a fractured thumb to avoid the hurt of another silver medal.
2022 Big School East-West roster includes nearly 2 dozen WPIAL, City League players
State champions from Aliquippa, Mt. Lebanon and Penn-Trafford were among nearly two dozen WPIAL and City League players announced Thursday as all-stars for the Big School East-West Game this spring.
11 WPIAL, City League football players picked for 2022 Small School East-West Game
The WPIAL’s leading rusher was among 11 WPIAL and City League players chosen Thursday for the Small School East-West Game this spring.
2022 WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship breakdown: Quaker Valley vs. Montour
No. 1 Quaker Valley vs. No. 2 Montour
What to watch in WPIAL finals: North Hills boys, 3 others seek 1st basketball title
North Hills senior Alex Smith and his older brother Nick have a strong sibling rivalry that carries over to the basketball court.
No. 1 North Hills reaches WPIAL finals with low-scoring win over Mt. Lebanon
March 1, 2022
Mt. Lebanon is notorious for consuming clock with long possessions, but when the Blue Devils did so Tuesday night, it was often because they found no easy route to the rim.
14 WPIAL players chosen for 2022 Big 33 Football Classic
Fourteen players from the WPIAL were selected Tuesday for the Big 33 Football Classic, including four from Mt. Lebanon’s state championship team and two from Penn-Trafford.
Defending champion New Castle reaches WPIAL finals for 8th time in 11 years
February 28, 2022
The road to the WPIAL championship winds through gyms all across Western Pennsylvania, but New Castle rarely gets lost along the way.
North Allegheny relies on balance in quest for 3rd straight Penguins Cup championship
February 27, 2022
As the hockey schedule reached late February, North Allegheny’s Connor Chi pushed his season-long scoring streak to 19 games. The senior recorded at least one goal or assist in every contest, cementing his spot as an elite scorer.
Quaker Valley’s Adou Thiero scores 25 in semifinal win despite fractured thumb
February 26, 2022
Adou Thiero wore tape on the knee he injured last winter and a wrap on the thumb he fractured earlier this week.
Freshman Rylee Kalocay’s late-game heroics take Upper St. Clair back to WPIAL finals
Upper St. Clair freshman Rylee Kalocay didn’t start Saturday’s semifinal, but she certainly finished it.
No. 1 North Hills celebrates 4th win over rival North Allegheny in WPIAL quarterfinals
February 25, 2022
As the saying goes, it’s tough to beat a basketball team three times in one season, but what about four? The sold-out crowd that packed into North Hills’ gym was there to find out.
Ellwood City basketball coach Steve Antuono suspended 2 games after chaotic playoff loss
Game officials imposed a two-game suspension on Ellwood City boys basketball coach Steve Antuono for unsportsmanlike actions during a chaotic ending to Thursday night’s playoff loss.
Gateway upsets No. 3 Mars, earns 1st WPIAL semifinal appearance since 2012
February 24, 2022
Gateway was only a couple of minute away from upsetting No. 3 seed Mars, but for the Gators, those final moments seemed to last forever.
Schools get some say as WPIAL releases football schedules for 2022, ’23 seasons
The WPIAL tried a new approach for scheduling nonconference football games this year by giving teams a say in who they play.
WPIAL schedules 3 basketball semifinals at Robert Morris’ UPMC Events Center
The WPIAL has scheduled three basketball semifinals at Robert Morris’ UPMC Events Center on Saturday starting with top-seeded Quaker Valley facing defending champion Lincoln Park in a Class 4A boys game at noon.
Confident and now healthy, star freshman Meleek Thomas leads Lincoln Park past North Catholic
Sharing the court with a couple of scorers bound for Division I colleges might make some freshmen timid. Not Lincoln Park’s Meleek Thomas, who waved for the basketball when the Leopards needed a fourth-quarter boost Wednesday night.
Butler plans legal action after PIAA upholds WPIAL ruling keeping football team out of District 10 playoffs
February 23, 2022
Butler intends to take legal action after the PIAA upheld a decision banning the football team from the District 10 playoffs, said the school’s athletic director.
PIAA football, soccer championships moving from Hershey to Cumberland Valley
Say goodbye to flying Hershey’s Kisses and giant chocolate bars. Pennsylvania high school athletes will have to find a new way to celebrate trips to the state championships.
Strong 1st quarter leads No. 8 North Allegheny past No. 9 Baldwin in WPIAL playoff opener
February 22, 2022
Tuesday marked the playoff opener for the North Allegheny boys, but the Tigers felt they’d already had a postseason mindset for a while now.
Steel Valley knocks out No. 4 Seton LaSalle with 1-2 punch in WPIAL playoff upset
February 21, 2022
Steel Valley’s Makhai Valentine wears No. 1 and teammate Cruce Brookins is No. 2, fitting for a combination that delivered a knockout punch Monday night.
WPIAL suspends former Greensburg Central Catholic assistant football coach for recruiting
The WPIAL has suspended a former Greensburg Central Catholic assistant football coach for violating PIAA rules against recruiting.
North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens lands at Arkansas with record-setting splash
February 19, 2022
Ayden Owens felt the sunshine of Southern California and the cold of Ann Arbor, Mich., in his first three years of college. Nowadays, you’ll find the former North Allegheny star breaking track and field records down south in Fayetteville, Ark.
Grandfather-grandson duo works together officiating WPIAL basketball games
February 17, 2022
When Matthew White was a little kid, he enjoyed going to high school basketball games and seeing the officials, because his grandfather was one of them.
WPIAL asks playoff basketball teams: ‘What have you done for me lately?’
February 15, 2022
The WPIAL basketball committee had a question for playoff teams: “What have you done for me lately?”
Breaking down the 2022 WPIAL boys basketball playoff brackets
February 14, 2022
Class 6A
Tough decisions prompt debate as WPIAL announces 2021-22 basketball playoff brackets
Laurel Highlands or New Castle? Mt. Lebanon or North Allegheny?
North Allegheny’s Cole Young projected as 1st-round pick in MLB Draft
February 13, 2022
Cole Young has a Twitter account, so the North Allegheny senior usually notices whenever someone publishes a new MLB mock draft or an updated list of high school baseball prospects.
WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel forecast 2021-22 girls basketball pairings
The February Frenzy is about to heat up as WPIAL basketball teams hop on the Path to the Pete.
WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel forecast 2021-22 boys basketball pairings
February 12, 2022
The February Frenzy is about to heat up as WPIAL basketball teams hop on the Path to the Pete.
Trib HSSN WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 13, 2022
Class 6A
Trib HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 13, 2022
Class 6A
Fox Chapel survives Eli Yofan injury scare, clinches sole possession of section title
February 11, 2022
Fox Chapel’s Eli Yofan went from laying under the hoop in pain in the third quarter to swinging on the rim in celebration in the fourth.
WPIAL asks Greensburg Central Catholic to explain possible recruiting violations
February 10, 2022
The WPIAL is looking into possible recruiting violations by Greensburg Central Catholic.
North Allegheny wrestling coach Sunny Abe resigns prior to postseason tournaments
February 9, 2022
North Allegheny wrestling coach Sanshiro “Sunny” Abe, a former NCAA champion and Olympic wrestler, resigned with one meet left in the regular season and the individual tournaments still ahead.
New Castle’s Joe Cowart resigns after 10 seasons, sent 2 former players to NFL
Not many WPIAL football coaches have had two former players active in the NFL at the same time, but New Castle’s Joe Cowart did during his coaching tenure, which came to a close this winter.
Aliquippa ‘hitting stride,’ defeats Seton LaSalle for 1st-place tie in Section 2
A young basketball team can age considerably in the short span of 25 days.
Pine-Richland hires Penn Hills’ Jon LeDonne as football coach
February 7, 2022
As a parent with three kids in the district, Jon LeDonne already wore a number of hats around Pine-Richland. Scorekeeper for middle school basketball. Coach for a fourth-grade girls team. Scorers’ table duty at youth wrestling matches.
Mt. Lebanon’s Bob Palko named Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year
February 6, 2022
Mt. Lebanon football coach Bob Palko, who led the Blue Devils to their first state championship, was named the 2021 Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year on Sunday.
With longtime coach out of retirement, North Allegheny swim teams out to achieve more excellence
Longtime North Allegheny swimming coach Corky Semler didn’t hesitate when athletic director Bob Bozzuto asked if he was interested in coming out of retirement this winter.
Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings for Feb. 5, 2022
Class 6A
Butler finds ‘desperation mode,’ boosts playoffs hopes by defeating Pine-Richland
One team in Butler’s brutal section may be left home when the playoffs start, which has the Golden Tornado convinced it can’t lose another game.
WPIAL delays release of football schedules over ‘unique situation’ with Aliquippa
February 3, 2022
The WPIAL decided not to release new football schedules this week because of a “unique situation” facing one of its schools.
Western Pa.’s Top 10 football prospects for the Class of 2023
Some of the nation’s top college football recruiters will visit Western Pennsylvania often in the coming months, because the WPIAL and City League have an uncommitted four-star Rivals recruit in the 2023 class.
WPIAL disciplines South Side, Steel Valley football after hearing on racial allegations
February 2, 2022
The South Side and Steel Valley football teams must complete educational training organized by the WPIAL to “further develop cultural competency” after their playoff game in November ended with accusations of unsportsmanlike conduct and racial slurs.
Shady Side Academy tops No. 4 South Allegheny to narrow section title race
Shady Side Academy used quickness and aggression to build a 10-point, fourth-quarter lead Tuesday night, a favorable position where many teams might then slow the tempo.
Clairton’s Tyler Boyd extends Super Bowl streak for Big 33 Football Classic
January 31, 2022
Thanks to former Clairton star Tyler Boyd, the Big 33 Football Classic’s Super Bowl streak lives on.
TribHSSN girls basketball rankings for Jan. 29, 2022
Class 6A
Greensburg Central Catholic boys hold off Winchester Thurston, take over 1st place
January 28, 2022
Greensburg Central Catholic and Winchester Thurston were scheduled to meet three weeks ago, but that boys basketball game was postponed, so the teams could only study one another from a distance.
Aliquippa plans to build new football stadium, receives $250,000 from NFL
Aliquippa’s aging football stadium will be torn down and rebuilt this year with a little help from the NFL.
Hampton hiring new football coach as Jacque DeMatteo ends 14-year stint
January 27, 2022
For the first time in 14 years, Hampton soon will have a new football coach.
Aliquippa wins PIAA appeal, remains in Class 4A football
January 26, 2022
Add another win to Aliquippa’s record.
Moon’s Mia Cochran repeats as Pa. Gatorade girls cross country award winner
January 25, 2022
Moon’s Mia Cochran has defended yet another cross country title.
With heavy hearts, OLSH ties WPIAL record for longest winning streak
As Our Lady of the Sacred Heart made WPIAL history Monday night, the boys basketball team wasn’t focused on what it was playing for, but rather who.
Mt. Lebanon’s Alex Tecza commits to Navy football, joining Blue Devils teammate
January 24, 2022
Mt. Lebanon’s Alex Tecza has played football with teammate Eli Heidenreich for as long as he can remember. As it turns out, high school graduation won’t break their bond.
TribHSSN girls basketball rankings for Jan. 22, 2022
Class 6A
North Allegheny AD Bozzuto sees future Class 6A football alignment with larger field
North Allegheny athletic director Bob Bozzuto has a forward-thinking mindset when it comes to football conference realignment. The ink barely has dried on WPIAL plans for the next two seasons, but he’s ready to start thinking about 2024 and ’25.
Markus Frank’s knack around basket leads unbeaten Quaker Valley past Lincoln Park
Quaker Valley’s Markus Frank has a knack for scoring around the rim from angles that seem almost impossible, yet he makes them with ease.
Former football coach Eric Kasperowicz drops lawsuit against Pine-Richland, hopes to reclaim job
January 21, 2022
Former Pine-Richland football coach Eric Kasperowicz is dropping his defamation lawsuit against the school district and its administrators in hopes of reclaiming his coaching job.
Laurel girls basketball coach resigns midseason, says ‘hand was forced’
January 20, 2022
The Laurel girls basketball team is trying to reach the WPIAL playoffs for the fifth year in a row, but the Spartans must do so without their head coach.
Imani Christian hires LaRoi Johnson as football coach
Football coach LaRoi Johnson is returning to his roots.
WPIAL notebook: Golf adds 36-hole format for individual championships
To win a WPIAL golf title next season, players must make the cut and play two good rounds.
WPIAL announces 2022 Hall of Fame class
January 19, 2022
Bob Kalp won more than 400 games as Hempfield’s softball coach, and Chuck Tursky celebrated his 500th career win as Kiski Area’s wrestling coach.
WPIAL board blocks Butler from District 10 football playoffs
The WPIAL two years ago gave Butler permission to play football in District 10 as an “associate member,” but there now is a dispute about whether the Golden Tornado can qualify for that district’s playoffs.
WPIAL reveals updated conference alignments for 2022, 2023 seasons
January 18, 2022
The WPIAL took a multiple-choice approach when it drew up new conferences for the 2022 and ‘23 football seasons.
3 options WPIAL could take with Class 6A football realignment
Tuesday should be a big day for WPIAL football players, coaches and fans.
Trib HSSN WPIAL Girls Basketball Rankings: Week ending Jan. 16, 2022
January 15, 2022
Class 6A
Trib HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 16, 2022
Class 6A
North Allegheny’s Mia Tuman named Pa. Gatorade Volleyball Player of the Year
Whenever the North Allegheny girls volleyball team wins a title, the Tigers have a knack for winning it again and again.
LA Pratt’s game-winner lifts Lincoln Park to 2-point win over Montour
January 14, 2022
Lincoln Park saw a 15-point lead vanish Friday night, but that was all forgotten once senior LA Pratt made a clutch runner with five seconds left to lift the Leopards to a 51-49 victory over Montour in a battle of ranked teams.
Ellwood City hires ‘proven winner’ Dan Bradley to fix struggling football program
Ellwood City hired former OLSH football coach Dan Bradley on Thursday to fix a distressed program that hasn’t won a game in three seasons.
PIAA denies Aliquippa appeal asking to avoid promotion to Class 5A football
January 13, 2022
The PIAA on Thursday denied an initial appeal from Aliquippa, which wants to avoid a pending promotion to Class 5A football next season.
MLK Day basketball showcase moves to Central Pa., still includes 5 WPIAL teams
The MLK Day basketball showcase that recently called Woodland Hills home has shifted about 150 miles east, but this weekend’s event still has some WPIAL teams taking part.
2 WPIAL coaches picked as assistants for Big 33 Football Classic
January 12, 2022
WPIAL football coaches Matt Humbert of Belle Vernon and T.J. Plack of Peters Township will serve as Team Pennsylvania assistants for the Big 33 Football Classic in May.
Daemar Kelly helps Penn Hills ‘learn how to win’ in section victory over Gateway
January 11, 2022
As the final seconds ticked away, coach Chris Giles and the players on the Penn Hills bench all were shouting the exact same words.
Mars school board set to open job of football coach Scott Heinauer
January 10, 2022
Mars appears ready to open the job of longtime football coach Scott Heinauer to applicants.
TribHSSN boys basketball rankings for Jan. 9, 2022
Class 6A
Pitt the ‘best of both worlds’ for North Allegheny’s Timmerson
Jasmine Timmerson noticed her cell phone is a little quieter nowadays without so many calls or texts from college coaches.
North Hills clamps down on defense, stops North Allegheny in clash of 6A contenders
January 7, 2022
Alex Smith knew that if North Allegheny shooter Matt McDonough didn’t cool down, he and his North Hills teammates were in trouble.
Woodland Hills football among WPIAL teams voluntarily playing in higher classification
Football coach Tim Bostard knew folks might be a little surprised to see the PIAA list Woodland Hills as a Class 3A team after years of playing two classifications higher.
Dan Bradley resigns as OLSH football coach after reaching WPIAL finals
January 6, 2022
Weeks after leading Our Lady of the Sacred Heart to the WPIAL finals, Dan Bradley resigned as Chargers football coach after six seasons.
Greg Perry resigns as Keystone Oaks football coach citing pay for assistants
January 5, 2022
Greg Perry resigned as football coach at his alma mater Keystone Oaks, citing a union contract decision that reduced money available for his assistant coaches.
PIAA realignment leaves WPIAL Class 6A football, basketball with fewer teams
January 4, 2022
The WPIAL’s largest classification officially is getting smaller next season in football and basketball.
PIAA competitive-balance rule impacts Aliquippa football unfairly, says Beaver County NAACP
The Beaver County branch of the NAACP added its voice to those opposing a PIAA rule that could force the small-school Aliquippa football team to face even larger opponents in Class 5A next season.
Central Valley’s Sean FitzSimmons named Trib HSSN Football Player of the Year
January 2, 2022
Central Valley faced a fourth-and-1 at its own 18-yard line with less than 5 minutes left in the state championship. The Warriors held a 7-0 lead, so nobody would’ve criticized coach Mark Lyons if he’d decided to punt and play defense.
Trib HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings for Week of Jan. 2, 2022
January 1, 2022
Class 6A
TribHSSN WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 2, 2022
Class 6A
2021 Trib 25 Football Team: WPIAL, state champions highlight HSSN all-stars
December 31, 2021
This was a historic football season for the WPIAL, which had four teams celebrate state titles in Hershey.
Mt. Lebanon tops Class 6A all-state football team as Bob Palko, Alex Tecza win individual awards
December 29, 2021
Mt. Lebanon won its first state title behind a veteran coach, a dynamic offensive trio and toughness at the line of scrimmage.
10 WPIAL players earn all-state in 5A, Penn-Trafford’s John Ruane named top coach
After winning its first WPIAL and PIAA football titles, Penn-Trafford has more reason to celebrate.
WPIAL lands 14 on 4A all-state team; Aliquippa’s Tiqwai Hayes, Mike Warfield earn top honors
If Tiqwai Hayes’ next three seasons are anything like his first, the Aliquippa freshman has an exciting future ahead.
PIAA champion Central Valley places 7 players on Class 3A all-state team, plus coach of the year
December 28, 2021
Central Valley’s 27th straight victory was a 7-0 win over Wyomissing in the PIAA Class 3A football championship game earlier this month. The Warriors’ run of success was certainly recognized by a group of Pennsylvania sportswriters.
Serra Catholic’s Jose Regus honored as Class 2A Coach of the Year in all-state football voting
A rare neurological disorder confined Serra Catholic coach Jose Regus to a wheelchair at times this season, yet Regus remained on the sideline and led the Eagles to a WPIAL football title and a state runner-up finish.
6 WPIAL players recognized on Class A all-state football team
Six WPIAL Class A football players earned all-state honors Tuesday, including Bishop Canevin wide receiver Lesae Lacks, whose team-high 50 catches helped the Crusaders win the district title.
Trib HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings for Week of Dec. 26, 2021
December 25, 2021
Class 6A
Trib HSSN girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 26, 2021
Class 6A
Steve Campos resigns after 1 season as Pine-Richland football coach
December 22, 2021
The Pine-Richland football coaching job is open for the second time in six months.
WPIAL Class 6A football to shrink again as Baldwin, Hempfield, Norwin drop
December 21, 2021
The WPIAL’s largest football classification just keeps getting smaller.
Sewickley Academy draws WPIAL discipline for promotional video highlighting athletics
December 20, 2021
In an attempt to boost middle-school enrollment, Sewickley Academy inadvertently ran afoul of PIAA recruiting rules with a multi-part video highlighting the school’s academics, arts and athletics.
Trib HSSN WPIAL girls basketball rankings for Week of Dec. 19, 2021
December 18, 2021
Class 6A
Trib HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings for Week of Dec. 19, 2021
Class 6A
Girls wrestling moving closer and closer to PIAA-sanctioned status
When coach Dan Heckert started a girls wrestling program a year ago at North Allegheny, he hoped someday the sport might become sanctioned by the PIAA and have teams at schools across the WPIAL.
Matt McDonough plays superhero on clutch 3-pointer as North Allegheny tops Pine-Richland in OT
Matt McDonough had a ticket to see the new Spider-Man movie, but his own heroics almost made him late.
Early signing day: Notre Dame, Pitt, Kentucky among Power 5 schools to land WPIAL, City League recruits
December 15, 2021
The excitement of signing day used to be limited to February, but that changed five years ago when the NCAA added an early signing period for Division I football.
Big Seven: Cornell, Rochester lead all-conference team, share top player awards
December 14, 2021
The Big Seven was competitive this fall, with every team winning at least two conference games.
Eastern: Leechburg, Clairton earn top individual awards on all-conference team
Leechburg quarterback Thomas Burke finished fifth among all WPIAL passers this season, earning the senior Offensive Player of the Year honors in the Eastern Conference.
Tri-County South: Top rushers Landan Stevenson, Colin Brady lead all-conference selections
Mapletown’s Landan Stevenson and West Greene’s Colin Brady play for small schools but they put up big numbers.
Allegheny: Steel Valley’s Nijhay Burt leads all-conference team as 2-way standout
Steel Valley’s Nijhay Burt rushed for more than 2,000 yards and scored 35 touchdowns, but Allegheny Conference coaches recognized the senior wasn’t only an offensive star.
LaRoi Johnson resigns as Sto-Rox football coach, athletic director
December 13, 2021
Football coach LaRoi Johnson, who led Sto-Rox to the WPIAL finals twice in his four seasons, said he resigned Monday as coach and athletic director.
Aliquippa has ‘no legitimate complaint’ about competitive-balance rule, says PIAA executive director
December 12, 2021
HERSHEY — The state’s competitive-balance rule is working as originally intended, despite Aliquippa football’s strong objections to playing bigger schools, says the PIAA’s top administrator.
Mt. Lebanon dethrones St. Joseph’s Prep to win 1st state championship
December 11, 2021
HERSHEY – There’s a new champion in PIAA Class 6A football, which surely surprises much of the state.
PIAA Class 6A football championship breakdown: Mt. Lebanon vs. St. Joseph’s Prep
PIAA Class 6A football championship
PIAA Class 3A football championship breakdown: Central Valley vs. Wyomissing
PIAA Class 3A football championship
Mt. Lebanon facing daunting challenge in state’s premier big-school program St. Joseph’s Prep
December 10, 2021
Nobody was too surprised to see St. Joseph’s Prep in Hershey. Mt. Lebanon coach Bob Palko certainly wasn’t.
Southern Columbia routs Serra Catholic, rolls to 5th consecutive PIAA title
HERSHEY — Serra Catholic punched and pulled at the football all afternoon, but the Eagles couldn’t wrestle the state championship from Southern Columbia’s steely grip.
Aliquippa beats odds, wins PIAA Class 4A championship
December 9, 2021
HERSHEY — Aliquippa has a Class A enrollment, yet the small-school Quips were crowned Thursday night as the best 4A football team in the state.
PIAA Class 2A football championship breakdown: Serra Catholic vs. Southern Columbia
PIAA Class 2A football championship
PIAA Class 5A football championship breakdown: Penn-Trafford vs. Imhotep Charter
PIAA Class 5A football championship
PIAA Class 4A football championship breakdown: Aliquippa vs. Bishop McDevitt
PIAA Class 4A championship
Aliquippa’s slimmed-down 300-pounders face heavy workload in state finals
December 8, 2021
At 6-foot-4 and 345 pounds, Aliquippa’s Naquan Crowder fits in nicely on one of the heaviest offensive lines in the state, but a commitment made by the team’s linemen to improve their fitness has him feeling lighter on his feet.
PIAA delays release of updated enrollment numbers to fix vo-tech issue
The PIAA delayed the release of its updated enrollment numbers for the 2022-23 and 2023-24 sports seasons until January after discovering some school districts used inconsistent methods for counting their vo-tech students.
WPIAL schedules hearing to address racial allegations against South Side football team
The WPIAL has scheduled a hearing Dec. 21 to address racial allegations stemming from a football playoff game last month between South Side and Steel Valley.
Midwestern: Laurel’s Luke McCoy, Beaver Falls’ Mekhi Clark top all-conference team
December 6, 2021
Laurel running back Luke McCoy, who ranked among the WPIAL rushing leaders this season, was honored three times by Midwestern coaches in all-conference voting.
Century: 9 Washington players named all-conference, Davoun Fuse voted MVP
Washington’s Davoun Fuse proved himself to be a dual-threat quarterback by passing for 11 touchdowns and running for 14 more, results that earned the junior MVP honors in the Class 2A Century Conference.
Three Rivers: Sto-Rox leads conference honors with 9 players on 1st team
Sto-Rox outscored Three Rivers opponents 201-12 this season, a dominance that saw quarterback Josh Jenkins and running back Jaymar Pearson named Offensive co-MVPs in the Class 2A conference.
Mt. Lebanon coach Bob Palko returns to PIAA football finals with heavy heart
December 5, 2021
The mood at Mansion Park Stadium was jubilant as Mt. Lebanon’s football team won a state semifinal for the first time in school history, yet amid the celebration coach Bob Palko held back tears.
North Allegheny takes on new look with DeGregorio back at the helm
Blue tape forms Xs, boxes and lines on North Allegheny’s basketball court, visual guides put down by boys coach Dave DeGregorio to teach a new offense.
Mt. Lebanon trounces State College, earns 1st trip to Hershey for state football finals
December 4, 2021
ALTOONA — Mt. Lebanon already proved itself as the best team in the WPIAL. Last week they added the title of best team in all of Western Pennsylvania.
Aliquippa scores 27 consecutive points in PIAA semifinal victory over Jersey Shore
December 3, 2021
EBENSBURG — Six minutes saved Aliquippa’s state title hopes.
5 things to watch: How many WPIAL teams will reach PIAA football finals?
Could the WPIAL send five or six teams to Hershey?
Only 14, freshman Tiqwai Hayes shoulders leading role in Aliquippa’s playoff run
When he’s avoiding tacklers and scoring touchdowns at a place like Heinz Field, it’s easy to forget Tiqwai Hayes is only 14 years old.
Central Catholic’s Donovan Hinish stays committed to Notre Dame as coach Brian Kelly exits
December 2, 2021
Central Catholic senior Donovan Hinish had just eaten dinner with a Notre Dame assistant shortly before he heard Fighting Irish coach Brian Kelly was leaving for LSU.
Northwestern Six: Central Valley tops all-conference picks with 13 spots on 1st team
Central Valley earned 13 first-team spots on the Northwestern Six all-conference team with Sean FitzSimmons, Jack Bible and Jayvin Thompson honored on both sides of the football.
Allegheny Seven: North Catholic wins 4 individual awards in all-conference voting
North Catholic’s Kyle Tipinski, Tyler Primrose and Andrew Stephens, who led the Trojans to the WPIAL finals, all earned individual player awards in all-conference voting for the Allegheny Seven.
Interstate: Elizabeth Forward’s Brownfield, Southmoreland’s Govern top all-conference team
December 1, 2021
Elizabeth Forward’s defense allowed only 28 points combined in six conference games, a dominance that led Interstate coaches to name senior DaVontay Brownfield as the conference’s top defensive player.
Big Eight: Belle Vernon’s Devin Whitlock, McKeesport’s Bobbie Boyd lead all-conference team
Thomas Jefferson was dethroned from its familiar spot atop the Big Eight this season, and two of the players most responsible received individual honors in all-conference voting.
Greater Allegheny: Hampton rewarded for conference title with 9 spots on 1st team
Hampton celebrated its first conference title since 2014, an achievement recognized in all-conference voting.
Parkway: Aliquippa leads all-conference voting with 14 players on 1st team
November 30, 2021
Aliquippa outscored Parkway opponents 237-40 this fall, a regular-season dominance that was reflected in voting for the all-conference team.
Big East: Penn-Trafford lands 12 players, coach on all-conference football team
A dozen Penn-Trafford football players earned first-team all-conference honors from a Warriors team that went unbeaten in the Big East and won a WPIAL title Saturday.
Northeast: Dugger brothers among 7 Penn Hills players named all-conference
Penn Hills brothers Julian and Jaden Dugger, a dynamic quarterback-receiver combination for the Indians, each earned first-team all-conference honors in the Class 5A Northeast.
Allegheny Six: Moon’s senior class well represented on all-conference team
Moon’s deep and talented senior class, which led the Tigers to the WPIAL finals for the first time since 1998, was well represented on the Allegheny 6 all-conference team.
Class 6A: Mt. Lebanon leads WPIAL all-conference honors with 9 players, coach
Mt. Lebanon won its first WPIAL title in 21 years, and the undefeated Blue Devils were recognized for their season-long success with nine first-team spots on the all-conference team for Class 6A.
Aliquippa celebrates ‘incredible, shameful’ victory over Belle Vernon in WPIAL Class 4A final
November 27, 2021
Small-school Aliquippa might be short on students, but nobody has more WPIAL football titles than the Quips.
Central Valley seeks 3rd straight WPIAL title, unbeaten North Catholic could spoil plans
When Central Valley takes the field Saturday, this will be the third WPIAL championship appearance in a row for some of the team’s starters.
Serra Catholic forces 9 turnovers, wins for coach in WPIAL Class 2A finals
November 26, 2021
Serra Catholic coach Jose Regus wore a hat at Heinz Field that said “battle,” a brand name of sportswear, but also one word that captures both his determination to coach and his defense’s relentlessness to win.
WPIAL Class 3A football championship breakdown: Central Valley vs. North Catholic
WPIAL Class 3A football championship
Mt. Lebanon’s latest title gives youngest Harvey brother equal bragging rights at Thanksgiving dinner
November 23, 2021
Thanksgiving means family, food and football in the Harvey household, and as the youngest of eight kids, William Harvey grew up hearing stories from the time his oldest brother won a WPIAL title.
PIAA releases sites, times for state football quarterfinal round
November 22, 2021
PIAA football playoffs
5 things we learned: Some WPIAL finalists wait decades for championship chance
Welcome to Heinz Field.
If forced to Class 5A, Aliquippa might consider leaving WPIAL football for independent schedule
November 21, 2021
Forcing the Aliquippa football team to play schools two, three or four times its size isn’t safe or fair, regardless of whether the Quips are winning those games, says the school district’s top administrator.
Alex Tecza’s 4 TDs help lift Mt. Lebanon to 1st WPIAL football title in 21 years
November 20, 2021
Central Catholic had about six weeks to devise a new strategy for stopping Alex Tecza, Eli Heidenreich and Joey Daniels, yet the three seniors and their Mt. Lebanon teammates proved undeniable.
WPIAL 6A football championship breakdown: Mt. Lebanon vs. Central Catholic
WPIAL Class 6A football championship
North Allegheny’s Mlecko steps into PIAA cross country history books as 4-time team champion
There was a time when Maura Mlecko was the freshman on North Allegheny’s cross country team, running at the state championship meet in Hershey for the first time. But like runners on that course, four years can go by fast.
Mt. Lebanon seeks 1st WPIAL title in decades vs. Central Catholic team familiar with finals
On one sideline will be Mt. Lebanon, the undefeated No. 1 seed in the WPIAL playoffs that is making its first championship appearance since 2000.
Moon headed to 1st WPIAL final since 1998 after topping Penn Hills in semis
November 19, 2021
Heinz Field hadn’t been built the last time Moon made the WPIAL football finals, but the Tigers are headed there now.
Seeking 1st WPIAL finals trip since 1998, No. 1 Moon faces Penn Hills in semifinals
A sign hanging inside Moon’s football stadium chronicles the milestone years in team history. One look at that board reminds the current Tigers that their team hasn’t reached the WPIAL finals in more than two decades.
North Allegheny swimming brings back retired coach to replace Patrick Wenzel
November 18, 2021
Citing personal reasons, title-winning North Allegheny swimming coach Patrick Wenzel resigned this fall after leading the WPIAL’s top program for eight years.
WPIAL Sportsmanship Summit to be live streamed Wednesday on TribLive HSSN
November 17, 2021
Athletes from dozens of Western Pennsylvania high schools will gather Wednesday morning at the Heinz History Center for the annual WPIAL Sportsmanship Summit, which will be streamed live on TribLive HSSN.
North Allegheny tops Shaler, earns 5th consecutive trip to state volleyball finals
North Allegheny will try for No. 5.
Hampton girls volleyball rallies past Freeport, reaches PIAA Class 3A final for 1st time
November 16, 2021
Two sets away from a trip to the state volleyball finals, perhaps the Freeport girls showed their age for the first time all season.
WPIAL investigates allegations of ‘racial bigotry, unsportsmanlike play’ by South Side football team
November 15, 2021
The WPIAL is investigating accusations of “racial bigotry and unsportsmanlike play” levied against the South Side football team.
Fox Chapel to host semifinal doubleheader in PIAA girls volleyball tournament
November 14, 2021
Fox Chapel will host a semifinal doubleheader Tuesday night in the girls volleyball state tournament.
PIAA announces sites, times for state soccer semifinals
The WPIAL will have at least seven soccer teams in the state finals, and the league could have a finalist in all eight championship games. The PIAA on Sunday announced sites and times for the state semifinals with seven all-WPIAL matchups among them.
5 things we learned: Big Seven keeps WPIAL Class A unpredictable
The WPIAL’s smallest classification was also its most unpredictable this fall, but Our Lady of the Sacred Heart coach Dan Bradley says he isn’t surprised by who is still standing.
Kiski Area lineman Brandon Lawhorn Moore commits to Miami (Ohio)
November 13, 2021
Kiski Area’s Brandon Lawhorn Moore, one of the WPIAL’s top offensive line recruits, committed Saturday to Miami (Ohio).
WPIAL announces sites for football semifinals
The WPIAL on Saturday revealed host sites for next weekend’s 10 football semifinals.
Thomas Jefferson returns to WPIAL semifinals with dominant win over Hampton
November 12, 2021
Hampton’s offense had posted extraordinary rushing numbers all season, but Thomas Jefferson knows a little about running the football, too.
5 things to watch: Class 6A football teams 1 win away from WPIAL finals
No player on Mt. Lebanon’s football roster was yet born the last time the Blue Devils reached the WPIAL finals.
Hampton hopes to make noise vs. defending WPIAL champ Thomas Jefferson
November 11, 2021
The sound of a train horn punctuates Hampton home games, thanks to an ardent Talbots fan at a nearby home.
Coaches announce 2021 WPIAL field hockey all-stars
November 10, 2021
Days after winning WPIAL titles, the Pine-Richland, Penn-Trafford and Shady Side Academy field hockey teams had another reason to celebrate Wednesday. Combined, the three WPIAL champions had 15 players honored as WPIAL all-stars.
3 WPIAL field hockey champions to host PIAA openers Tuesday
November 7, 2021
No Western Pennsylvania field hockey team has reached the PIAA finals in the sport’s 47-year history, but three WPIAL squads will try as they start their state tournament quest Tuesday.
Sites, times announced for PIAA girls volleyball tournament
The North Allegheny girls volleyball team will begin its quest for a fifth consecutive state title at home Tuesday.
PIAA announces sites, times for state soccer playoff openers
The PIAA revealed sites and times for first-round matchups in the state soccer playoffs and all eight WPIAL champions have home games.
5 things we learned: Home-field advantage didn’t guarantee wins in WPIAL 1st round
November 6, 2021
There are high school football stadiums in Western Pennsylvania where visiting teams rarely win. New Brighton walked into one of those daunting places Friday night and confidently won.
Freshmen runners help North Allegheny boys, girls again sweep WPIAL titles
The starting line at a cross country championship can be a stressful scene for first-timers, yet North Allegheny’s freshmen clearly weren’t fazed.
Long passes let No. 11 Peters Township upset North Hills in WPIAL playoffs
In many ways, Peters Township quarterback Sam Miller epitomizes his football team.
5 things to watch: First-round byes create new twist for WPIAL football playoffs
November 5, 2021
Byes, byes, byes.
North Hills, Peters Township hope to out-perform their seeds in ‘wide open’ 5A
November 4, 2021
The No. 11 is listed next to Peters Township’s name on the WPIAL football brackets, but the Indians sure don’t feel like a double-digit seed.
WPIAL football likely down to 7 teams in 6A as PIAA releases 2022-23 parameters
November 2, 2021
The WPIAL’s largest football classification — 6A — is likely getting smaller again.
WPIAL reveals football playoff brackets, surprises with No. 1 seed in 2A
In the span of a year, Steel Valley went from a one-win season to the No. 1 seed in the WPIAL football playoffs.
Unsung line coach has helped North Allegheny win battles in trenches for 3 decades
Who decided that the running backs and wide receivers are called skill-position players? North Allegheny line coach Mike Buchert strongly disagrees.
2021 WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan predict football playoffs
For the second year in a row, football coaches won’t crowd into a Green Tree ballroom to see the WPIAL playoff brackets announced. Instead, the brackets will be revealed in a video livestream at 6 p.m. Saturday on TribLive HSSN.
Nijhay Burt carries No. 5 Steel Valley past Serra Catholic to clinch Allegheny Conference title
October 29, 2021
WPIAL rushing leader Nijhay Burt was averaging 2 yards a carry on his first 10 tries Friday night, yet nobody this season has frustrated the Steel Valley star for an entire game.
5 things to watch in Week 9: Winner-takes-all matchups in 2 WPIAL conferences
Serra Catholic hasn’t celebrated a conference title since 2007, and the 14 seasons since included some lean years for the Eagles. The team went winless in 2012 and endured one-win seasons in 2013 and ’14.
5 things we learned in Week 8: Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher delivers again in must-win game
October 24, 2021
Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher has delivered many times before in must-win situations, but those often had him holding a basketball in his hands.
Brownsville leaving WPIAL football for independent schedule
Leaving WPIAL football was an idea Brownsville athletic director Scott Roebuck once was adamantly against, but now he agrees that drastic move is the best chance to save the program.
Rare defeat helped North Allegheny girls volleyball players refocus
The winning streak had stood at 57 section victories when the North Allegheny girls volleyball team saw its unbeaten run stunningly end this season.
No. 1 Moon shuts out Bethel Park, clinches Allegheny Six title
October 22, 2021
Moon has a fondness for physical football, clock-consuming drives and 225-pound running backs.
5 things to watch in Week 8: Home field at stake for WPIAL 1st round and quarterfinals
There’s no place like home, especially in the playoffs.
Winless a year ago, Bethel Park challenges Moon for conference title in Allegheny Six
A year after going winless, the Bethel Park football players have a chance this week to call themselves champions of the Allegheny Six.
Allderdice wins rematch with Brashear, returns to City League championship
October 21, 2021
Using Jaerone Parker as a wildcat quarterback was a new wrinkle Allderdice added to its game plan this week while preparing to face Brashear for the second time in eight days.
4 WPIAL coaches earn statewide honor from PIAA
October 20, 2021
Four WPIAL coaches earned state coach of the year honors from the PIAA for the 2020-21 school year.
WPIAL says Plum football used ineligible player, must forfeit game
October 18, 2021
The Plum football team used an ineligible player in some games this season, the WPIAL decided Monday, meaning the Mustangs must forfeit those contests.
Gateway hopes for strong finish after season full of growing pains
October 17, 2021
Gateway football players receive a video scouting report every Sunday from coach Don Holl that starts with an update on the state of the season.
Five things we learned in Week 7: City League star, state’s top junior sidelined for season
October 16, 2021
One of Pennsylvania’s top football players may miss the rest of his junior season with a knee injury.
Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Oct. 16, 2021
Class 6A
Dylan Sleva drives dominant 4th quarter as No. 1 Moon outlasts Upper St. Clair
October 15, 2021
There wasn’t much surprise whenever Dylan Sleva got the football in the fourth quarter, yet Moon kept feeding their 225-pound battering ram.
5 things to watch in Week 7: North Catholic leads WPIAL defenses chasing zeroes
Zero has become North Catholic’s favorite number.
Upper St. Clair revamps offense mid-season, readies ‘wildcat’ for No. 1 Moon
October 14, 2021
An old football adage says if you’re playing two quarterbacks, you actually have none.
PIAA eases preseason practice requirements for most sports, not football
October 13, 2021
The PIAA says it’s OK to skip practice.
Kentucky coach John Calipari visits Imani Christian to see 6-10 freshman phenom
October 12, 2021
Imani Christian is a small school in East Hills, yet Saints basketball coach Khayree Wilson welcomed one of college basketball’s biggest names Tuesday.
WPIAL launches league-wide food drive with competitive twist
October 11, 2021
The WPIAL launched a league-wide food drive Monday that runs until Oct. 23 and since sports teams are involved, it comes with a competitive twist. Participating schools will compete against one another to donate the most meals.
5 things we learned in Week 6 of H.S. football: ‘You can’t control the weather’
October 10, 2021
After rushing for 167 yards and two touchdowns on Friday, Mt. Lebanon running back Alex Tecza didn’t sleep well that night.
Mt. Lebanon shows ‘toughness’ in lightning-delayed win over No. 1 Central Catholic
Mt. Lebanon quarterback Joey Daniels dislocated a finger on his left hand Friday night while catching a trick-play touchdown, but he was back behind center Saturday morning to finish the lightning-delayed game.
Defending PIHL champion North Allegheny plans to enjoy the ride
The lake wasn’t frozen, so the North Allegheny hockey team traded its sticks for oars and competed in the Pittsburgh Dragon Boat Festival at North Park.
Lightning postpones Central Catholic vs. Mt. Lebanon football game to Saturday
October 8, 2021
When Central Catholic visited Mt. Lebanon on Friday night, the game was supposed to be electric, not the weather.
WPIAL recognizes 5 schools with Sportsmanship Award
Six-time winner Hampton was among five schools named Friday as recipients of the WPIAL Sportsmanship Award, joining Derry, Laurel, Moon and Upper St. Clair.
North Hills’ Robert Dickerson commits to Bucknell for both football, baseball
College football coaches want Robert Dickerson as a slot receiver, but the North Hills senior knew he didn’t want to put away his baseball glove and bat for good.
5 things to watch in Week 6: De facto conference champions to be crowned?
October 7, 2021
No, it’s not over ‘til it’s over.
Central Catholic, Mt. Lebanon battle for 1st place in WPIAL Class 6A
Unlike last week, there won’t be any motivational banner hanging over Mt. Lebanon’s locker room entrance.
5 things we learned in Week 5 of H.S. football: Clairton’s 66-game streak is safe
October 2, 2021
The Wyomissing football team might have a thank you gift headed its way with a Clairton postmark on the package. Suddenly, the Bears are huge fans of the high school near Reading.
Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Oct. 3, 2021
Class 6A
North Allegheny girls soccer gets defensive in WPIAL title defense
As two-time reigning WPIAL champions, the girls on North Allegheny’s soccer team are trying to defend their title again this fall, with an added emphasis on the word “defend.”
Devin Whitlock shines but sophomore shares spotlight as Belle Vernon tops Laurel Highlands
October 1, 2021
If this matchup was meant to decide the most-dangerous playmaker in the Big Eight, Devin Whitlock certainly made his case.
5 things to watch in high school football’s Week 5
September 30, 2021
Greensburg Salem, Laurel Highlands and Steel Valley lead a collection of WPIAL football teams enjoying a revival this fall.
WPIAL director joins Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank coalition
September 27, 2021
WPIAL executive director Amy Scheuneman, who is leading a league-wide food drive this fall, was named Monday to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank’s Sports and Media Coalition.
5 things we learned in Week 4 of H.S. football: 16 teams remain unbeaten at midway point
September 26, 2021
Laurel football coach Brian Cooper has the Spartans off to a 5-0 start, likely for the first time since 1977, but the Spartans aren’t slowing down to celebrate.
North Allegheny girls golfers chasing individual, team success
Many of the golfers on North Allegheny’s girls team already have their own swing instructors, so first-year coach Sarah Morrison tries not to tinker much with their mechanics.
Central Catholic tops North Allegheny in rematch of WPIAL Class 6A championship
September 24, 2021
Central Catholic has a new-look offense with ties to an NFL coach, but the Vikings haven’t abandoned what made them two-time defending WPIAL champions.
Central Catholic, North Allegheny meet in rematch of WPIAL Class 6A championship
North Allegheny maybe isn’t the trendy pick in WPIAL championship talk, but the next few weeks could change that discussion.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week 4: Covid cancellations not always ‘no-contest’
September 23, 2021
The WPIAL’s message is clear: Not every covid-related cancellation will be excused as no-contest.
Carlynton football cancellation leads to Serra Catholic vs. Freeport matchup Friday
September 22, 2021
Carlynton canceled its nonconference football game scheduled for Friday against Serra Catholic because of covid-19 cases, but Serra needed little time to find new opponent.
After near-death experience, Bishop Canevin senior writing comeback story on football field
In a helmet and shoulder pads, Eli Wilson looks just like thousands of other high school football players across Western Pennsylvania. But the Bishop Canevin senior has a remarkable life story that started tragically before turning triumphant.
WPIAL sets covid-19 cancellation policy, won’t require vaccinations for officials
September 20, 2021
A regular-season contest canceled because of covid-19 can be declared a “no-contest” rather than a forfeit, but first the WPIAL intends to make sure teams aren’t bending the rules to avoid an opponent.
No longer Penn State-bound, Perry’s Tyreese Fearbry chooses Kentucky
September 19, 2021
Six weeks after decommiting from Penn State, Perry senior Tyreese Fearbry has a new plan for college.
Chartiers Valley cornerback Lamont Payne commits to Penn State
Chartiers Valley junior defensive back Lamont Payne committed to Penn State on Saturday while on campus to watch the Nittany Lions’ win over Auburn.
5 things we learned in Week 3 of H.S. football: Bishop Canevin joins Class A conversation
September 18, 2021
Rebuilding a football program traditionally takes playbooks and practice, but Bishop Canevin coach Rich Johnson added tree pruners and paint brushes to his list.
Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Sept. 19, 2021
Class 6A
Strong freshman class adds to lineup for defending PIAA champion North Allegheny cross country teams
When your boys and girls teams are both defending WPIAL and PIAA cross country champions, what do you do this fall for an encore?
Sto-Rox’s big-play defense steals momentum, finds end zone in win over Avonworth
Jaymar Pearson had already shed his Sto-Rox jersey in the minutes after Friday night’s win, but Avonworth’s coach recognized him even without a No. 7 on his back.
After 11 shutout quarters, Sto-Rox defense draws big test from Avonworth
September 17, 2021
The point totals on Sto-Rox’s side of the scoreboard are often eye-catching, but the numbers next to their opponent have been noteworthy as well this fall.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week 3: Coaches like nonconference tune-ups
September 16, 2021
The sprint to the WPIAL playoffs starts now.
PIAA worried teams using covid-19 issues to avoid unfavorable opponents
September 15, 2021
The PIAA is worried teams may be using covid-19 issues as a way to avoid an unfavorable opponent, so the board on Wednesday debated at length a policy that would’ve made regular season cancellations forfeits.
PIAA board approves vaccine mandate for officials, doesn’t foresee shortage
The PIAA does not expect its covid-19 vaccination mandate to cause a shortage of game officials since the new policy applies only to inter-district state tournament games.
PIAA requires covid-19 vaccination for all officials working state playoffs
September 14, 2021
The PIAA will require its game officials in all sports to be fully vaccinated against covid-19 to work any state postseason contests this fall.
Nearly forced to move with NFL free agent father, Tyree Alualu excelling as North Allegheny linebacker
September 12, 2021
North Allegheny linebacker Tyree Alualu is already making an impact as a first-year starter in the middle of the Tigers defense, but the sophomore standout nearly spent this fall playing football for another high school, likely in Florida.
5 things we learned in Week 2 of H.S. football
September 11, 2021
Time inevitably erases memories from blowout games with lopsided scores, regardless of whether you’re on the winning or losing side.
Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Sept. 12, 2021
Class 6A
Central Valley’s Landon Alexander gets birthday wish, defeats rival Aliquippa
Landon Alexander wished for a win on his 18th birthday.
Aliquippa, Central Valley anticipate electric atmosphere as rivalry renews
September 10, 2021
The cement stands may be weathered, the grass field might be bumpy and the vintage light towers have rust, but few WPIAL football venues can match the atmosphere of a big crowd at historic Aschman Stadium in Aliquippa.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week 2: Handmade schedule a hit
September 9, 2021
Man or machine?
Basketball standout Debaba Tshiebwe eligible after transfer to Central Catholic, WPIAL decides
September 8, 2021
Central Catholic transfer Debaba Tshiebwe, a basketball standout who arrived this summer from a private school in Ohio, is fully eligible for the regular season and playoffs this winter.
Ellwood City, OLSH cancel Week 2 football games
September 7, 2021
Ellwood City and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart each canceled their scheduled football games this week because of covid-related issues.
What we learned in Week 1 of H.S. football
More than two dozen WPIAL football teams are off to 2-0 starts, but the most exciting could belong to Shaler Area.
Underclassmen to play key roles for North Allegheny boys soccer
With few returning starters and a roster heavy in sophomores, North Allegheny coach Bobby Vosmaer told his boys soccer team to be ready.
Senior quarterback steps up, leads Thomas Jefferson past Gateway in battle of top-ranked teams
September 3, 2021
Quarterback was considered a big question mark for Thomas Jefferson, so coach Bill Cherpak intended to give a couple of players snaps there.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week 1: Teams roll with covid cancellations
September 2, 2021
If high school football teams were hoping covid shutdowns were left behind in 2020, this week shows they’re not gone yet.
Westinghouse football game canceled because of covid case
Friday’s scheduled football game between Westinghouse and Kirtland (Ohio) will not be played because of a covid case within the City League school’s program.
Central Valley, Blackhawk left without Week 1 games after opponents cancel
September 1, 2021
In a dilemma reminiscent of last fall, Central Valley has started searching for a new opponent for Friday night’s football game.
Bishop Sycamore under scrutiny after facing Sto-Rox, IMG Academy on same weekend
August 30, 2021
Sto-Rox and Bishop Sycamore both wore black uniforms for their football game Friday at the Wolvarena, but the matching outfits weren’t the most unusual part of the weekend for the online school from Columbus, Ohio.
5 things we learned in Week Zero of H.S. football
Rather than a double-double, two-sport star Rodney Gallagher recorded a double-triple.
Big-play defense leads Sto-Rox past Bishop Sycamore at Wolvarena
Sto-Rox’s high-scoring offense will have big nights this season, there’s little doubt about that.
Philly power Imhotep Charter wears down Central Catholic with oversized offensive line
Two tight ends, a huge offensive line and a gritty running back gaining chucks of yardage at a time. This certainly was the style of offense Central Catholic usually would relish.
Central Catholic draws Philadelphia power Imhotep Charter in cross-state Week Zero clash
August 27, 2021
Finding a willing Week Zero opponent nearby isn’t always easy for Central Catholic, the two-time defending WPIAL Class 6A champion.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the biggest coaching moves for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the kickers
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top kickers and punters for the 2021 season.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week Zero: On opening night, teams have options
August 26, 2021
“Week Zero” is back.
WPIAL football teams welcome return to traditional ‘Friday night lights’ atmosphere
In any other year, there might have been huge crowds at Sarge Alberts Stadium to witness one of the most dominant seasons in WPIAL football history.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the safeties
August 25, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top safeties for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the cornerbacks
August 24, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top cornerbacks for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the linebackers
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top linebackers for the 2021 season.
2021 WPIAL Class 5A football breakdown: Pine-Richland saga headlines offseason of change
The defending champion has a new coach. The preseason favorite has a new quarterback. The runner-up from last season has a whole lot of new faces.
WPIAL football finals to be played over 2 days at Heinz Field
August 23, 2021
For the first time, the WPIAL football championships will be a two-day event at Heinz Field this fall.
Aliquippa keeps punching above its weight … and winning
Because Aliquippa reached the WPIAL Class 4A finals last fall, coach Mike Warfield worries that achievement will overshadow one harsh reality.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the defensive line
August 22, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top defensive linemen for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the offensive line
August 21, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top offensive linemen for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the tight ends
August 20, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top tight ends for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the wide receivers
August 19, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top wide receivers for the 2021 season.
After offseason upheaval, Pine-Richland has something to prove
Pine-Richland is a defending WPIAL and PIAA champion, but the Rams aren’t focused on last year. At this point, that undefeated season seems long ago.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs
August 18, 2021
Starting this week, TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top running backs for the 2021 season.
Gateway gladly wears bull’s-eye in WPIAL Class 5A
On paper, Gateway certainly has the look of a WPIAL contender.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks
August 17, 2021
Starting today, TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top quarterbacks for the 2021 season.
Like rivals, Upper St. Clair turns to new nucleus
Upper St. Clair’s conference was among the WPIAL’s deepest in recent years with senior-heavy rosters full of experience becoming the norm in the South Hills.
Peters Township seniors hungry for bigger roles
When Peters Township snaps the football on opening night, returning center Anthony Brunette will be the lineman over the ball.
After state championship blockbuster, Central Valley working on encore
August 14, 2021
The big question facing Central Valley this fall is: How do you top last season?
U.S.-Canada border policy impacts Week Zero schedule for Upper St. Clair, Greensburg Central Catholic
August 13, 2021
In any other year, facing an international opponent would bring some excitement to Week Zero of football season.
Culture change takes root under Bob Palko at Mt. Lebanon
Editor’s note: Starting today, Trib HSSN will preview at least one WPIAL conference per day until the start of high school football season Aug. 27.
North Allegheny flying under Class 6A radar
Editor’s note: Starting today, Trib HSSN will preview at least one WPIAL conference per day until the start of high school football season Aug. 27.
Chartiers Valley’s Marian Turnbull commits to Northeastern
August 10, 2021
The record-setting Chartiers Valley girls team now has five rising seniors all committed to play basketball in college with three headed to Division I schools.
Mike Tomlin refutes report saying Steelers receiver James Washington wants traded
August 7, 2021
Despite a report saying James Washington was unhappy with his role and wanted to be traded, Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said he hasn’t heard those words from the fourth-year receiver.
North Allegheny AD Bozzuto pitches regular season baseball tournaments in PIAA board debut
High school baseball players can play dozens and dozens of AAU games each summer, at times more than one per day and often multiple days in a row.
Rick Meister, championship-winning softball coach at North Allegheny, dies
Former North Allegheny softball coach Rick Meister, who led the Tigers to both WPIAL and PIAA gold, has died. He was 73.
Mt. Lebanon’s Eli Heidenreich follows family tradition, commits to Navy
August 6, 2021
Eli Heidenreich’s college choice involved more than deciding where he’d spend the next four or five years of his life. The Mt. Lebanon senior, whose grandfather and uncle both served in the Navy, followed a similar path and committed this week to play football for the Naval Academy.
WPIAL requests eligibility hearings for New Castle, Bishop Canevin transfers
August 4, 2021
The WPIAL will schedule an eligibility hearing for New Castle transfer DaJaun Young, a double-digit scorer for Kennedy Catholic’s boys basketball team last winter.
North Allegheny catcher Aaron Posey commits to Division I Kennesaw State
July 31, 2021
As a catcher named Posey who wears No. 28, North Allegheny’s Aaron Posey sometimes jokes that he’s related to a National League MVP.
With camps, college visits back, TribLive HSSN Preseason All-Stars are busy this summer
July 22, 2021
As Josh Jenkins walked into Kennywood Park, passing the merry-go-round and the Sky Rocket, the Sto-Rox quarterback marveled at just how much life has improved in a year.
WPIAL adds board of directors seat exclusively for private schools
July 19, 2021
Private schools in the WPIAL soon will have their own seat on the board.
WPIAL football championships will return to Heinz Field this fall — maybe over 2 days
The WPIAL football championships are returning to Heinz Field this fall, maybe for a two-day affair Thanksgiving weekend at the North Shore stadium.
State champion wrestler, City League great Godwin Nyama Cutler dies at 27
July 18, 2021
Former state wrestling champion Godwin Nyama Cutler, an all-time City League great who won the league its first PIAA title less than a decade ago, has died. He was 27.
Miller, Meister headline North Allegheny Hall of Fame class
July 16, 2021
Championship-winning coaches Heidi Miller and Rick Meister were among 18 inductees chosen to enter the North Allegheny Hall of Fame this year.
PIAA makes change to state basketball tournament, anticipates ‘normal’ fall
July 14, 2021
The state basketball tournament will start a little earlier this winter under a schedule change that makes cross-state travel easier for the semifinals and finals.
Trib HSSN boys athlete of the year: Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer wins titles in 2 sports
July 12, 2021
Early in the winter, Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer called his future college wrestling coach with some bad news. He’d injured his left shoulder and would eventually need surgery to repair a torn labrum.
A year like no other: The top stories of the 2020-21 school year in WPIAL sports
July 10, 2021
8.21.20
Record-setting quarterback Johnny DiNapoli leaving East Allegheny
July 9, 2021
Johnny DiNapoli, who set a WPIAL passing record two years ago, has transferred this summer from East Allegheny to Elizabeth Forward.
Seton LaSalle baseball standout, coach’s son Brett Wagner transferring to IMG Academy
July 8, 2021
Seton LaSalle baseball coach Mike Wagner is losing his favorite player to IMG Academy in Florida, but he’s 100% on board with the kid’s decision.
North Allegheny’s Cole Young picked for all-star baseball game at Coors Field
North Allegheny shortstop Cole Young, who could be a future MLB Draft pick, is headed to the site of this year’s baseball all-star game.
Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Sean FitzSimmons
July 4, 2021
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Trib HSSN Head of the Class: Baseball Player and Coach of the Year for each classification
July 3, 2021
Whether their school had students in the classroom or virtually this spring, there is a special seat up front reserved for these standout performers and coaches in the return to the baseball field.
Kathy McConnell-Miller leaves Trinity bench for college basketball job
July 2, 2021
Kathy McConnell-Miller is returning to the college coaching ranks after two seasons with the Trinity girls basketball team.
Central Valley’s Mark Lyons nominated for NFL high school coach of the year
Central Valley’s Mark Lyons was among 32 nominees announced Thursday for the Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year award.
2021 Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year: Eric Chalus, Bethel Park
2021 HSSN Baseball Player of the Year
Week Zero football showcase returns to Wolvarena in August
July 1, 2021
Week Zero is back on the football schedule this fall, and with it returns the Western Pa. vs. Everyone football showcase hosted by Woodland Hills.
Butler basketball’s Devin Carney commits to Elon
One of college basketball’s stingiest defenses added some scoring power Thursday when Butler’s Devin Carney committed to Elon.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Patrick Body, Gateway
June 28, 2021
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Moon lineman Trent Fraley commits to Marshall
June 27, 2021
Moon’s Trent Fraley, the son of a former NFL lineman, announced his commitment Sunday to Marshall.
WPIAL, PIAA champions among 2021 TribLive HSSN Baseball All-Stars
Among the six teams crowned WPIAL baseball champions this spring, their individual stories varied greatly.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Brad Birch, Gateway
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Landon Alexander, Central Valley
June 26, 2021
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
North Allegheny baseball appreciates contribution of seniors, looks to bright future
June 25, 2021
North Allegheny’s Cole Young shared hugs and handshakes with teammates near the first base dugout at Penn State’s baseball field, season-ending thank yous to the seniors whose high school careers were ending there.
La Salle College starter shuts down North Allegheny in Class 6A finals
June 18, 2021
Sometimes, it’s not a pitcher’s fastball velocity that makes him unhittable. La Salle College starter Ryan Marler proved that true Friday night.
Shenango’s rally falls 1 run short in PIAA Class 2A championship
UNIVERSITY PARK – At 67, Shenango coach Larry Kelly was four years younger than his state championship counterpart in the other dugout Friday.
Facing 1-year suspension, Seton LaSalle football coach Mauro Monz resigns
June 17, 2021
Suspended football coach Mauro Monz, facing a one-year ban from the WPIAL over recruiting allegations, said he’s resigning at Seton LaSalle rather than continue to appeal.
Clutch pitching carries Bethel Park past star-studded Red Land to PIAA baseball title
UNIVERSITY PARK — Red Land has a future MLB first-rounder batting leadoff and some ex-Little League World Series stars behind him. So, Bethel Park staked its title hopes on an old adage that good pitching beats good hitting.
Slow start dooms Eden Christian baseball in 1st PIAA finals appearance
UNIVERSITY PARK — As a first-time state finalist, Eden Christian will remember Thursday’s game for years to come, even if they’d like to forget the first two innings.
Future 1st-round MLB Draft pick awaits Bethel Park in PIAA final vs. Red Land
June 16, 2021
At around 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Bethel Park pitcher Eric Chalus will take the mound for the PIAA Class 5A championship at Penn State’s Medlar Field and face Red Land’s leadoff hitter.
Seneca Valley adds former Pine-Richland football assistants Lehmeier, Sasson
Assistant football coaches Tim Sasson and Ryan Lehmeier were left searching for new jobs when their time together at Pine-Richland abruptly ended. So, they offered themselves as a packaged deal to any school needing an offensive line coach and an offensive coordinator.
Butler tight end Charlie Kreinbucher commits to Akron
June 15, 2021
The Butler football program has struggled in recent years, but the Golden Tornado has a Division I talent in rising senior Charlie Kreinbucher.
WPIAL upholds suspensions of Seton LaSalle football coaches
June 14, 2021
The WPIAL heard additional evidence about Seton LaSalle’s suspended football coaches during a lengthy hearing Monday but ultimately reached the same decision.
Anthony Miller’s 12 Ks lead New Castle to 1st appearance in state baseball finals
Maybe the big-game atmosphere had Anthony Miller feeling ready, seeing hundreds of New Castle fans filter into Neshannock’s baseball field. Maybe it was the fact his Red Hurricanes were one win away from the state finals.
Where is Eden Christian? Baseball team puts school on map with PIAA playoff run
June 13, 2021
In his 15 years as a teacher, administrator and now baseball coach at the school, Steve Good is often asked: Where is Eden Christian?
PIAA reveals sites, times for state baseball semifinals
June 11, 2021
The WPIAL is guaranteed to have at least two teams in the state baseball finals and could have as many as five.
Semifinal sites, times announced for PIAA softball playoffs
The PIAA softball semifinals will feature a pair of WPIAL championship rematches Monday at Mars.
Montour shuts out Cathedral Prep, earns semifinal rematch against New Castle
June 10, 2021
Before Montour pitcher Dylan Mathiesen took the mound for the 12th time this season, his coaches wondered if the right-hander might be tiring a little. His previous outing came in the WPIAL finals, and Mathiesen’s stuff that day maybe wasn’t his sharpest.
On the clock: PIAA will discuss basketball shot clock in months ahead
June 9, 2021
Will Pennsylvania high school basketball have a shot clock in 2022?
Penn State will allow full capacity for PIAA baseball, softball championships
Penn State will allow full capacity at its baseball and softball stadiums for the upcoming PIAA championships, alleviating worries the softball finals might need to be moved.
WPIAL approves 3 Seton LaSalle transfers, Jackson Pons’ return to Norwin
June 8, 2021
Mauro Monz’s status as Seton LaSalle coach remains in doubt, but the WPIAL ruled his son eligible to play football for the Rebels this fall.
Softball playoff sites, times set for PIAA quarterfinals
Norwin will host an all-WPIAL doubleheader Thursday in the state softball quarterfinals.
PIAA reveals quarterfinal sites, times for state baseball playoffs
PIAA baseball quarterfinalists learned Tuesday where they’re playing next.
Serra Catholic naming court after longtime girls basketball coach Bill Cleary
June 4, 2021
Serra Catholic is naming its basketball court after longtime girls coach Bill Cleary, the school announced Friday.
Central Catholic defensive tackle Donovan Hinish commits to Notre Dame
Notre Dame bought billboard space around Pittsburgh this spring, touting the many Western Pennsylvania football players who’ve joined the Fighting Irish in recent years.
Sites, times announced for PIAA 1st-round softball playoff games
The six WPIAL softball champions will start their state tournament runs at Norwin, Peterswood Park or North Allegheny next week.
PIAA reveals 1st-round sites, times for state baseball playoffs
The PIAA on Friday released sites and times for next week’s first-round games in the state baseball playoffs.
New Pine-Richland football coach predicts ‘smooth transition’ after meeting players
There were some sleepless nights this week for Steve Campos as Pine-Richland was about to make him the school’s new football coach. But after meeting with the players for the first time Thursday afternoon, Campos predicted he’d sleep soundly later that night.
Woodland Hills athletic director Ron Coursey leaving WPIAL for Chambersburg job
June 3, 2021
Woodland Hills athletic director Ron Coursey has always wanted to chat with the PIAA leadership about its transfer rule. He’ll soon be working almost in their backyard, once he becomes athletic director at Chambersburg, so maybe he’ll knock on their door.
New Castle’s Rocco Bernadina mows down Montour in WPIAL Class 4A championship
June 2, 2021
New Castle owns the most boys basketball titles in WPIAL history, and the football team ranks third on the league’s all-time championships list.
PIAA rules Gateway QB Brad Birch eligible, returns Seton LaSalle appeal to WPIAL
The PIAA overturned one WPIAL decision and told the WPIAL board to reconsider another.
North Allegheny ace shuts down Hempfield, leads Tigers to record 8th WPIAL title
June 1, 2021
Hempfield got an early look at right-hander Kyle Demi a few weekends ago, but that sneak peek at the North Allegheny ace didn’t help much Tuesday night.
Seneca Valley assistant could be Pine-Richland’s next coach, source says
Steve Campos, an assistant football coach at Seneca Valley, is expected to be the recommended candidate to fill the vacant head coach job at Pine-Richland, according to a source.
South Fayette’s Amy Allen claims 4 PIAA medals, wins gold with 400-meter relay
May 29, 2021
SHIPPENSBURG — When Amy Allen qualified for states as a sophomore, she ran one event and went home.
Plum’s Parker medals in shot put at PIAA championships
SHIPPENSBURG — Plum thrower Logan Parker returned Saturday to Seth Grove Stadium and felt right at home.
West Mifflin’s Dontae Lewis celebrates 300 hurdles title on future college track
SHIPPENSBURG — While his competitors endured the cold rain and wind inside Seth Grove Stadium, West Mifflin hurdler Dontae Lewis found a way to escape.
Beaver’s Emma Pavelek earns PIAA high jump silver wearing borrowed shoes
SHIPPENSBURG — Emma Pavelek didn’t walk a mile in someone else’s shoes but she did high jump in someone else’s sneakers.
Quaker Valley’s Nora Johns wins state gold in 1st year running 300 hurdles
SHIPPENSBURG — Nora Johns ran the 300 hurdles for the first time this spring, and the Quaker Valley sophomore can remember the thoughts running through her head at the time.
Gallon thrives in cleanup role for North Allegheny
Batting cleanup comes with added responsibility in any baseball lineup, but there’s a little extra burden for North Allegheny’s No. 4 hitter.
North Catholic sprinter Trevor Paschall wins 1st PIAA gold in 200, silver in 400
SHIPPENSBURG — Trevor Paschall’s state championship meet wasn’t going quite how he’d imagined.
Waynesburg’s Taylor Shriver clears 13 feet, wins long-awaited PIAA pole vault title
SHIPPENSBURG — Waynesburg pole vaulter Taylor Shriver needed three tries to clear her first bar at the state championships, an 11-foot jump that’s normally routine for the senior.
Thoughts of hospitalized teammate carry Aliquippa relay team to 5th-place finish
May 28, 2021
SHIPPENSBURG — He should have been here, said the four sprinters on Aliquippa’s relay team, whose thoughts were with their fifth teammate, hospitalized in Pittsburgh.
Shady Side Academy’s Melissa Riggins joins elite list with 6 PIAA gold medals
SHIPPENSBURG — Matching the speed she showed circling the track, the public address announcer at Seth Grove Stadium declared Melissa Riggins a three-time state champion in the 1,600 meters as soon as she crossed the finish line.
Patience pays off in PIAA gold for Deer Lakes runner Carson McCoy
SHIPPENSBURG — In hindsight, Carson McCoy decided he probably made his move too early at the WPIAL championship, ultimately finishing second.
Aliquippa to compete at state track meet with teammate, critically injured in shooting, in thoughts
May 27, 2021
Aliquippa’s track team arrived Thursday in Shippensburg, a day ahead of the state championships, but the Quips made the trip with one fewer sprinter than they’d hoped.
PIAA might seek alternate site for softball championships at Penn State
May 26, 2021
The state softball championships are scheduled for next month at Penn State, but there’s a chance the PIAA will need to find an alternate site.
WPIAL reveals championship schedule for baseball finals
The WPIAL baseball finalists in Class 6A and 4A will play under the lights at Wild Things Park next week.
Bethel Park’s walk-off win caps fierce pitchers’ duel with West Allegheny
May 25, 2021
Bethel Park’s Zack Sackett stood in the first-base dugout at Matulevic Field and watched two of the WPIAL’s gutsiest pitchers duel for 41 outs Tuesday without allowing a run.
North Allegheny returns to WPIAL finals after 10-run win over Butler
North Allegheny’s Joe Manesiotis surely was a little surprised when Butler intentionally walked the batter ahead of him to load the bases.
Montour celebrates 1-run win over Quaker Valley in WPIAL 4A quarterfinals
May 24, 2021
With two runners on, no outs and trailing by a run, Montour’s Mason Sike was told to be ready to lay down a bunt.
Rain alters WPIAL baseball, softball playoff schedules Monday
Rain forced the WPIAL to revamp Monday’s playoff schedules for baseball and softball, moving some games to new sites and postponing others to Tuesday.
‘Revitalized’ Gary Goga hired as Keystone Oaks boys basketball coach
Boys basketball coach Gary Goga, who built Peters Township into a WPIAL championship program in his 15 seasons there, is ready for another challenge.
‘It was meant to be,’ says new Woodland Hills boys basketball coach Eugene Wilson
A few weeks after its coach resigned midseason, the Woodland Hills boys basketball team made a trip to Ringgold for a nonsection game this past winter.
Quick corrections lead North Allegheny’s Taylor to WPIAL triple jump title
May 22, 2021
There’s plenty about junior Dwayne Taylor that impresses North Allegheny’s track and field coaches: He’s 6-foot-5 with long limbs and the speed of a sprinter.
Sophomore’s clutch hit carries Bethel Park past Shaler into Class 5A baseball semifinals
May 21, 2021
Some might consider Bethel Park sophomore John Chalus the little brother of a Division I baseball recruit, but he certainly wasn’t overshadowed Friday.
‘Perfect timing’ leads Dave DeGregorio back to North Allegheny as boys basketball coach
May 20, 2021
When Dave DeGregorio resigned at North Allegheny five years ago to coach his sons, a part of him thought he might return someday, if the timing was right.
Fantastic 400 finish between Hampton’s Galuska, Butler’s Brown headlines WPIAL Class AAA meet
May 19, 2021
Hampton sprinter Gage Galuska threw his body forward at the finish line, tumbled into a somersault and stayed on the track waiting for his 400-meter time to show on the scoreboard.
WPIAL track and field championships: What to know for Wednesday’s meet
The WPIAL endured a season without track and field last spring, but the championships are back. Individual champions in Class AAA and AA will be crowned Wednesday at Slippery Rock University.
After adding 2-game series to regular season, what’s next for WPIAL baseball?
May 17, 2021
The WPIAL baseball committee’s philosophy is simple: The best team should win section titles and league championships, not the team with one incredibly dominant pitcher.
Mask policies for spectators will vary at WPIAL postseason events
Spectators will be asked to wear masks Wednesday at the WPIAL track and field championships at Slippery Rock University despite the recent change to the statewide mandate.
North Allegheny ready to rehire Dave DeGregorio as boys basketball coach
May 15, 2021
North Allegheny’s next boys basketball coach already knows the program well.
North Allegheny girls pleased with runner-up finish at WPIAL team championships
Only a handful of schools reach the WPIAL team track championships each year, but the meet has become almost an annual tradition for the North Allegheny girls.
WPIAL reveals brackets for 2021 baseball playoffs
After enduring a year with no baseball, the WPIAL playoffs are back.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan take an early look at baseball playoff pairings
The real brackets for the 2021 WPIAL baseball playoff will be revealed at 3 p.m. Friday on TribLive HSSN.
Butler boys, girls dominate at WPIAL Class AAA team finals
May 12, 2021
As Butler runner C.J. Singleton neared the finish line, the junior wondered how close his nearest 800-meter challenger was, so he took a quick glance behind him.
WPIAL reveals updated postseason plans for spring sports playoffs
May 10, 2021
If covid-related cancellations leave section standings unsettled, the WPIAL will have its steering committees determine which teams make the playoffs this spring.
A year after high jumping at home, Beaver’s Emma Pavelek worried another season was doomed
May 9, 2021
Emma Pavelek had never been to a chiropractor before this past week and was skeptical one could help her painful foot. She’d been diagnosed with a sprain but after five weeks, her injury wasn’t getting any better.
Shady Side’s Melissa Riggins wins twice at Baldwin Invite despite facing ‘worst wind’
May 8, 2021
The weather app on Melissa Riggins’ smartphone misled her a little.
WPIAL softball rankings | May 8, 2021
Class 6A
WPIAL baseball rankings | May 8, 2021
Class 6A
North Allegheny’s Akindele among WPIAL’s top sprinters
When North Allegheny sprinter Lola Akindele broke the 60-second barrier in the 400 meters, she was elated.
North Journal notebook: North Allegheny’s Morningstar named Gatorade Player of the Year
North Allegheny senior Paige Morningstar was named the state’s Gatorade Volleyball Player of the Year after leading the Tigers to a fourth consecutive PIAA title last fall.
West Mifflin senior, PIAA favorite Dontae Lewis sweeps hurdles at Baldwin Invitational
May 7, 2021
Some hurdlers have tunnel vision on the track, focused solely on their lane and uninterested in their competitors.
North Allegheny’s Paige Morningstar named state’s Gatorade Volleyball Player of the Year
May 6, 2021
Six years after her sister won the award, North Allegheny senior Paige Morningstar was named the state’s Gatorade Pa. Volleyball Player of the Year.
WPIAL has big decisions to make this week about baseball, softball playoffs
May 4, 2021
Will higher-seeded baseball and softball teams host playoff games this spring or could the WPIAL use neutral sites as usual?
WPIAL rules 1 Birch brother eligible, other brother ineligible after hearing
May 3, 2021
The WPIAL handed Gateway transfers Brett and Brad Birch a good-news, bad-news scenario.
Ousted coach Eric Kasperowicz apologizes to Pine-Richland administrators in letter
In a letter asking to be rehired, ousted football coach Eric Kasperowicz apologized to Pine-Richland’s school board and administration for his “attitude and behavior” during a contentious late-March interview.
WPIAL sees 2 players make Class 6A boys basketball all-state team
May 1, 2021
Butler’s Devin Carney and Fox Chapel’s Eli Yofan earned all-state honors Saturday when the Pa. Sports Writers All-State Team for Class 6A boys basketball was announced.
WPIAL softball rankings | May 1, 2021
Class 6A
WPIAL baseball rankings | May 1, 2021
Class 6A
North Hills’ Robert Dickerson has aspirations of football/baseball career in college
As a two-sport star who hits home runs and scores touchdowns, North Hills’ Robert Dickerson hears the occasional Kyler Murray reference. Older generations go to Deion Sanders or Bo Jackson as their football-baseball icon.
4 WPIAL boys basketball players make Class 5A all-state team
April 30, 2021
Chartiers Valley senior Brayden Reynolds and Laurel Highlands sophomore Rodney Gallagher earned first-team honors when the Pa. Sports Writers All-State Team for Class 5A boys basketball was announced Friday.
Before becoming NFL Draft star, Kyle Pitts clashed with WPIAL champion in Hershey
April 29, 2021
If tight end Kyle Pitts is the first non-quarterback selected Thursday night in the NFL Draft, Gateway football coach Don Holl won’t be surprised.
4 WPIAL boys basketball players earn all-state honors in Class 4A
Lincoln Park senior Dakari Bradford and North Catholic senior Andrew Ammerman, whose teams clashed last month in the WPIAL finals, were among four WPIAL boys basketball players earning all-state honors Thursday in Class 4A.
Washington softball forfeits remaining games, hopes for better seasons ahead
Washington hopes to build up its softball program in years to come, athletic director Mike Bosnic said Thursday, but this spring’s season will end after only one game.
Serra Catholic hires Matt Bacco as girls basketball coach
Serra Catholic has a new girls basketball coach for the first time in years.
State’s all-time winningest boys basketball coach earns all-state honor in 3A
April 28, 2021
Weeks after winning a boys basketball state title, Loyalsock also dominated the all-state team for PIAA Class 3A.
Undefeated OLSH tops Class 2A boys basketball all-state team
April 27, 2021
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart’s perfect season just keeps getting a little better.
6 WPIAL players chosen for Class A all-state boys basketball team
April 26, 2021
Six weeks after Bishop Canevin’s Dom Elliot and Kevaughn Price shared a championship court with Rochester’s Devon Hemer and JD Azulay, the four WPIAL Class A finalists are together again.
Lizzy Groetsch, Aislin Malcolm among 20 WPIAL girls basketball players named all-state
North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch and Chartiers Valley’s Aislin Malcolm each added another statewide honor to their resumes.
All-state boys basketball teams revealed this week starting with non-PIAA schools
April 25, 2021
The all-state boys basketball teams will be announced over a seven-day span starting today with players from non-PIAA member schools. In years past, all-state organizers added those athletes to the PIAA classification teams but split them into their own group this winter.
WPIAL Baseball Rankings: April 24, 2021
Class 6A
North Journal notebook: North Allegheny doubles team claims section title
After winning a section singles title earlier this month, North Allegheny’s Chase Davidson doubled his medal haul April 21 when he teamed up with Shomik Telang to win a Section 2-AAA doubles crown.
Seton LaSalle appeals football coaches’ suspensions to PIAA
April 23, 2021
Seton LaSalle has appealed to the PIAA to overturn discipline handed down by the WPIAL for recruiting violations.
Pine-Richland cites ‘pattern of hazing, intimidation’ in letter firing coach Eric Kasperowicz
April 22, 2021
Ousted football coach Eric Kasperowicz “expressed minimal concern for hazing or empathy for the students” during a 2½-hour interview with Pine-Richland administrators in late-March, according to a letter the school district sent him cutting ties.
Neil Walker hopes Pine-Richland avoids ‘huge black eye’ from football coach controversy
April 21, 2021
Retiring pro baseball player Neil Walker, one of Pine-Richland’s most famous alums, hopes the controversial ouster of the school’s football coach doesn’t become “a huge black eye” for the community.
North Allegheny tops Mt. Lebanon, celebrates back-to-back Penguins Cup titles
April 20, 2021
North Allegheny goalie Josh Bailey didn’t mince words Monday night. The second period, when he was peppered with 20 shots and the puck stayed trapped inside NA’s blue line, was bad.
WPIAL grants eligibility to pair of football players
April 19, 2021
The WPIAL granted eligibility to Central Catholic’s Jayden Thrift and McKeesport’s Jake Miller, two football players who switched schools this winter.
Fired football coach Eric Kasperowicz reaches out to Pine-Richland to ‘come to a resolution’
With students, parents and community members demanding Pine-Richland rehire Eric Kasperowicz, the ousted football coach has asked school administrators to meet with him and “come to a resolution quickly.”
Urged not to apply at Pine-Richland, coaches statewide pledge support for ousted coach Eric Kasperowicz
April 18, 2021
Dozens of high school football coaches statewide have used social media to announce their support for coach Eric Kasperowicz and his assistants, who were fired at Pine-Richland on Wednesday.
Trib HSSN Baseball Rankings: April 17, 2021
Class 6A
Ousted coach Eric Kasperowicz reapplies to lead Pine-Richland football team
April 16, 2021
Pine-Richland already has at least one applicant to coach the football team next fall, and it’s someone who knows the program very well.
Cowboys QB Ben DiNucci supports Eric Kasperowicz after coach’s surprise firing at Pine-Richland
Ben DiNucci lives 1,200 miles from Pine-Richland but was stunned when word reached him in Texas that his high school football coach had been fired.
Football coach Eric Kasperowicz: ‘No bullying or hazing took place’ at Pine-Richland
April 15, 2021
A day after being fired, former Pine-Richland football coach Eric Kasperowicz pushed back against any allegation of hazing or bullying in his program, while his assistants described a toxic relationship with the school’s administration.
WPIAL awards $1,000 scholarships to 20 scholar-athletes, cancels luncheon
The WPIAL/James Collins Scholar-Athlete Program luncheon was canceled again this spring because of the pandemic, but the $1,000 scholarships will be awarded as planned.
Pine-Richland fires football coach Eric Kasperowicz 5 months after winning state title
April 14, 2021
In the span of eight years, Pine-Richland football coach Eric Kasperowicz built the Rams into one of the WPIAL’s best programs with four WPIAL championships and two state titles.
WPIAL approves spring championship sites, adopts split schedule for individual track meet
The WPIAL individual track and field championships will be run midweek this spring and have a split schedule, with Class 2A starting first and 3A later in the day.
WPIAL rules Birch brothers ineligible after transfer from Jeannette to Gateway
Two high-profile transfers now are in limbo.
Butler’s Devin Carney adds scholarship offer from Duquesne basketball
April 13, 2021
If Butler’s Devin Carney wants to stay home for college, he now has another Division I option.
Pitt, Penn State offer Chartiers Valley’s Lamont Payne after pressure-packed sophomore year
April 12, 2021
On one side of the field, Chartiers Valley had a senior three-year starter at cornerback. On the other side was sophomore Lamont Payne.
WPIAL to finalize spring championship sites, plans return to familiar venues
The WPIAL will finalize its championship sites for spring sports when the board meets Wednesday.
PIAA basketball committee wants state semifinals on weekend, not weekday
April 11, 2021
The state basketball tournament might begin a few days earlier next winter, if the PIAA basketball committee gets its wish.
North Allegheny’s talented lineup, rotation aims to ‘prove something’
In a way, pitcher Kyle Demi personifies North Allegheny’s mindset this season. He’s a big right-hander with a fastball that can reach 90 mph, but most folks around the WPIAL haven’t seen him throw it.
Trib HSSN baseball rankings for April 10, 2021
Class 6A
PIAA won’t offer opinion on transgender legislation before reading proposal
April 9, 2021
The PIAA won’t offer an opinion on proposed legislation barring transgender athletes from girls sports before reading the bill, executive director Bob Lombardi said.
Moon’s Mia Cochran named state’s top girls cross country runner by Gatorade
April 8, 2021
Moon’s Mia Cochran was named as the state’s Gatorade Cross Country Player of the Year on Thursday, making her only the second WPIAL runner to win the award.
PIAA cuts state track championships to 1-day meets but won’t reduce qualifiers
April 7, 2021
The PIAA track and field championships are being condensed to one-day meets this spring, but they’ll include the same number of qualifiers as usual.
OLSH’s DiMichele, Spadafora named Trib HSSN Boys Basketball Players of the Year
April 6, 2021
Jake DiMichele and Dante Spadafora were the perfect combination this winter, but the Our Lady of the Sacred Heart basketball teammates weren’t always fast friends.
Large, diverse list of candidates seeks WPIAL board of directors seat
April 5, 2021
This year’s ballot for electing new WPIAL board members has the largest and most diverse list of candidates in recent memory, executive director Amy Scheuneman said.
Big 33 Football Classic down to 13 WPIAL players for May all-star game
April 4, 2021
The Big 33 Football Classic is down to 13 WPIAL athletes for this year’s game after a sixth player withdrew.
2021 Trib 10 Boys Basketball All-Stars
This year’s Trib 10 boys basketball all-star team could look a lot like next year’s team.
2021 Trib 10 Girls Basketball All-Stars
This year’s Trib 10 girls basketball all-star team has an impressive collection of medals.
Seton LaSalle coaches Mauro Monz, Jason Pinkston suspended 1 year by WPIAL
March 31, 2021
Seton LaSalle football coach Mauro Monz and assistant Jason Pinkston are suspended from coaching any PIAA-affiliated team for one year, the WPIAL announced Wednesday.
Seton LaSalle football coaches face possible suspension following WPIAL hearing
March 30, 2021
Administrators from four school districts raised recruiting allegations Tuesday against Seton LaSalle’s football coaches during a lengthy closed-door hearing with the WPIAL, a situation unprecedented in recent memory, WPIAL executive director Amy Scheuneman said.
Chartiers Valley held to 27 points in PIAA championship loss to Cardinal O’Hara
March 27, 2021
HERSHEY — On film, Cardinal O’Hara looked big, strong and physical to Chartiers Valley coach Tim McConnell, so his Colts weren’t surprised by what they ran into at Giant Center.
PIAA Class 5A girls basketball championship breakdown: Chartiers Valley vs. Cardinal O’Hara
PIAA Class 5A girls basketball championship
North Allegheny girls celebrate 1st PIAA title, top Spring-Ford in state finals
March 26, 2021
HERSHEY — North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch and Paige Morningstar were together at Giant Center four years ago when the Tigers last reached the state finals, and they talked then about someday winning a title.
OLSH joins elite list as undefeated PIAA boys basketball champion
HERSHEY — For Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, this was the perfect ending.
Mohawk basketball seniors find ‘closure’ despite PIAA championship loss
March 25, 2021
HERSHEY — The PIAA eliminated its on-court medal ceremonies this winter, so Mohawk basketball coach Mike O’Lare awarded them in the team’s makeshift locker room.
Neshannock girls fall in PIAA basketball finals, plan return trip to Hershey
HERSHEY — Neshannock’s first visit to the state finals ended with silver medals and a runner-up trophy, but before the Lancers left Giant Center, they were already making plans for a return trip.
Constitution will play OLSH in state finals after negative covid tests
HERSHEY — The Our Lady of the Sacred Heart boys basketball team will have an opponent for the state championships.
PIAA favors full playoff brackets for spring sports ‘if possible’
March 24, 2021
If the PIAA gets its wish, spring sports will have full state playoff brackets this season rather than the smaller champions-only format used in the fall and winter.
Short-handed Upper St. Clair falls in state semifinals to Reading
March 23, 2021
ALTOONA — There was no short-handed win for Upper St. Clair this time, no sequel to the team’s six-man celebration from a few days ago.
WPIAL to investigate recruiting allegations against Seton LaSalle football
The WPIAL has scheduled a hearing to address recruiting allegations raised by other schools against Seton LaSalle’s football coaching staff.
Foul trouble dooms Lincoln Park in PIAA semifinal loss to Hickory
March 22, 2021
Twenty-eight times Lincoln Park was whistled for a foul Monday night, yet it wasn’t so much how they fouled but rather who.
Short-handed Upper St. Clair wins PIAA quarterfinal with 6 players, volunteer coach
March 20, 2021
Screenwriters might not turn the “Upper St. Clair Six” into a movie, but their improbable story has every element for a covid-era drama about high school basketball.
New Castle loses late lead, falls to Cathedral Prep in overtime
March 19, 2021
For New Castle, the fourth quarter ticked away too slowly and overtime went by too fast.
Winning basketball titles runs in Lincoln Park freshman Brandin Cummings’ family
Comparisons to older brother Nelly are harder to shake than any lockdown defender, and Lincoln Park freshman Brandin Cummings just added another item in common.
Dan DeRose makes ‘tough decision,’ resigns as North Allegheny boys basketball coach
March 17, 2021
Calling it “a very tough decision,” Dan DeRose resigned Wednesday night after one season as boys basketball coach at North Allegheny.
Covid-19 concerns won’t keep Upper St. Clair boys out of PIAA basketball playoffs
Upper St. Clair’s boys basketball team has at least six healthy players, so the Panthers will compete Saturday in the PIAA playoffs as scheduled.
Lincoln Park tops North Catholic, avenges last season’s WPIAL championship loss
March 15, 2021
Dakari Bradford never forgot the emotions he saw in Lincoln Park’s locker room last winter, especially the sadness from the seniors playing their final WPIAL championship.
Upper St. Clair boys basketball quarantines after covid case, state playoffs in question
Three days after winning a WPIAL title, Upper St. Clair’s boys basketball season could be in jeopardy.
WPIAL notebook: League won’t face financial loss from winter sports
The WPIAL lost around $28,000 by holding its swimming championships with no spectators, but the league expects to break even once all winter sport revenues are counted.
WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship breakdown: North Catholic vs. Lincoln Park
March 14, 2021
WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship
New Castle tops Chartiers Valley for record 14th WPIAL basketball title
March 13, 2021
New Castle’s Sheldon Cox wasn’t the senior who had everyone’s attention entering Saturday night. But by the time Cox threw down two dunks in the final seconds, all eyes were on him and his record-setting Red Hurricanes.
WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship breakdown: Chartiers Valley vs. New Castle
WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship
Upper St. Clair tops Pine-Richland, celebrates 1st WPIAL title since ’05
March 12, 2021
There were moments when Danny Holzer could’ve worried in the fourth quarter, probably should’ve been worried, but Upper St. Clair’s longtime coach insists he wasn’t.
WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball championship breakdown: Upper St. Clair vs. Pine-Richland
WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball championship
WPIAL Class A boys basketball championship breakdown: Bishop Canevin vs. Rochester
WPIAL Class A boys basketball championship
Lincoln Park bests Midland’s streak with 6th consecutive WPIAL finals appearance
March 11, 2021
Blue and gold banners hang in Lincoln Park’s gym to celebrate the great Midland teams from past decades but the new-era Leopards just one-upped their old-school counterparts.
New Castle tops Laurel Highlands, reaches 7th WPIAL finals in 10 years
March 10, 2021
Six times in the past decade already, New Castle had reached the WPIAL finals behind a frenzied press defense that’s become a hallmark of the program.
Allderdice boys excluded from City League basketball finals but season isn’t over
The City League boys basketball championship will move forward without Allderdice but the team’s season isn’t over.
Upper St. Clair finally solves Butler, earns 1st WPIAL finals appearance since ’05
March 9, 2021
Upper St. Clair lost twice to Butler in last year’s basketball playoffs, heart-wrenching losses that senior Luke Banbury recalls a little differently than his USC teammates.
Owen DeGregorio makes 7 3-pointers as North Catholic returns to WPIAL semifinals
March 8, 2021
North Catholic’s Owen DeGregorio took advantage of Monday’s mild weather to put up some shots with his dad on their outdoor hoop.
4 WPIAL players withdraw from Big 33 Football Classic
March 7, 2021
Four WPIAL football players picked for the Big 33 Football Classic won’t take part because of college obligations, organizers for the high school all-star game announced.
Mars scores 24 consecutive points in WPIAL 5A quarterfinal win over Trinity
March 6, 2021
Zac Schlegel and his Mars teammates were reluctant to see the second quarter clock reach zeroes Saturday.
North Allegheny, Peters Township will host WPIAL basketball championships
North Allegheny and Peters Township, two of the area’s larger high school gyms, are expected to host all 12 WPIAL basketball championship games.
Union confusion leads Imani Christian basketball team on ride to wrong school
Sixty miles separate the Union Area High School near New Castle from Union High School in Rimersburg, but the districts with matching names continue to cause trouble for bus drivers.
Devin Carney’s buzzer-beating 3 lifts Butler past Penn-Trafford in OT
March 5, 2021
Ten times Butler’s Devin Carney had taken a shot from behind the arc Friday night and nine of them had missed. In fact, a potential winner at the end of regulation bounced hard off the rim.
After exploring college options, WPIAL to keep basketball finals in high school gyms
With gathering limits increased statewide, the WPIAL looked into renting a college venue for its basketball championships, but decided to use high school gyms as originally planned.
Ellwood City earns validation, upsets Avonworth in WPIAL Class 3A playoffs
There was nothing invalid about Monday’s playoff win, a 52-point preliminary-round victory that officially ended Ellwood City’s decade-long postseason drought.
PIAA says spring athletes can shed masks outdoors, if physical distancing possible
March 3, 2021
Spring sports athletes and coaches can shed their masks when outdoors, as long as they maintain 6 feet of physical distance, according to new PIAA guidelines for covid-19.
Seneca Valley tops Mt. Lebanon without its coach, earns 1st playoff win since ’13
March 2, 2021
With about 30 seconds until half, Mt. Lebanon decided to hold for the final shot, but Seneca Valley wasn’t in a wait-and-see mood.
WPIAL basketball playoffs to see increase in fans, possibly larger venue for finals
March 1, 2021
There will be more fans in the stands at WPIAL basketball playoff games this week after Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration Monday raised gathering limits on indoor events.
Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings: Feb. 28, 2021
February 28, 2021
Final regular-season rankings
Trib HSSN girls basketball rankings: Feb. 28, 2021
Final regular-season rankings
Opponents try, and fail, to knock North Allegheny top scorer off his game
February 27, 2021
North Allegheny’s Connor Chi occasionally gets cross-checked behind the play or hit a little late by an opponent trying to intimidate him on the ice.
Upper St. Clair tops Chartiers Valley in battle of No. 1 overall seeds
February 26, 2021
This would’ve been a scrimmage most years, tucked between the WPIAL pairings meeting and the playoff openers, but Upper St. Clair and Chartiers Valley played Friday night with purpose.
WPIAL cancels 2 preliminary-round playoff basketball games
February 25, 2021
The WPIAL on Thursday cancelled two playoff basketball games after the Ambridge girls and Propel Braddock Hills boys withdrew from the postseason.
WPIAL takes no action against Mt. Lebanon basketball coach for objecting to official
Mt. Lebanon boys basketball coach Joe David testified in a WPIAL hearing Thursday that he was uncomfortable with one of the officials assigned to his game last week, but insisted he never threatened to take his team and leave.
Breaking down the 2021 WPIAL boys basketball playoffs
February 23, 2021
Here is a breakdown of the 2020-21 WPIAL boys basketball playoffs:
In seeding basketball brackets, WPIAL asks: What have you done lately?
When it came time to seed the basketball playoff brackets, the WPIAL asked: What have you done lately?
Controversial finish sees Butler defeat North Allegheny, avenge 2 earlier losses
North Allegheny ran undefeated through its boys basketball section twice, but this winter’s quirky schedule included a third time through, much to NA’s dismay.
WPIAL: Gyms must have capacity of 700 or greater to host basketball playoff games
February 22, 2021
Some top seeds in the WPIAL basketball playoffs could find themselves playing on their opponent’s home floor this winter.
Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings: Feb. 21, 2021
Class 6A
North Allegheny seniors earn redemption with WPIBL championship
A couple of pins cost North Allegheny’s boys bowling team a title two seasons ago, so the Tigers made certain this year’s championship match wasn’t as close.
Rodney Gallagher’s winner lifts Laurel Highlands over Thomas Jefferson
February 19, 2021
Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher already has accomplished more than most sophomores, but the Mustangs star added two more firsts to his list.
25 basketball teams won’t participate in WPIAL’s open postseason tournament
February 18, 2021
Derry’s girls basketball team earned its way into the WPIAL playoffs last winter, but the one-win Trojans won’t go back this year.
Big 33 Football Classic goes ‘full-speed ahead,’ announces roster with 19 WPIAL players
The weather will be perfect for the Big 33 Football Classic, predicts Garry Cathell, executive director of the Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association.
Schools must certify mask exemptions in writing before PIAA playoffs, not WPIALs
February 17, 2021
High school athletes must wear a mask during PIAA postseason competition unless their school certifies in writing that they qualify for a medical exemption.
Lincoln Park tops Quaker Valley in battle for section lead, will rematch Thursday
February 16, 2021
Brandin Cummings gave Lincoln Park the lead with a gutsy 3-pointer in the closing minutes, made two clutch free throws in the final seconds and led his team in scoring for the third game in a row.
Obama Academy boys basketball halts activities after positive covid-19 test
The Obama Academy boys basketball team must shut down activities for 14 days after a player tested positive for covid-19, Pittsburgh Public Schools announced Tuesday.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan take early look at boys basketball tournament
February 15, 2021
The WPIAL basketball playoffs will seem bigger than ever this winter since the league intends to hold an open tournament in each of the six classifications.
PIAA might require schools to certify mask-wearing exemptions in writing
With many high school sports teams competing maskless, the PIAA may require postseason participants to certify in writing that their athletes qualify for an exemption under the state mandate.
An early fall? PIAA planning committee opposes starting football season sooner
February 14, 2021
The PIAA doesn’t have a prognosticating groundhog, but after hearing from its strategic planning committee, it doesn’t look like fall sports will arrive any earlier next school year.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan take early look at girls basketball tournament
The WPIAL basketball playoffs will seem bigger than ever this winter since the league intends to hold an open tournament in each of the six classifications.
Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings: Feb. 14, 2021
Class 6A
Aspiring photographer, North Hills swimmer Josh Bogniard seeks picture-perfect WPIALs
When North Hills senior swimmer Josh Bogniard isn’t in the water, he’s often taking photographs of some. Icy waterfalls, mossy streams and a duckweed covered pond appear on the aspiring photographer’s Instagram account.
Brayden Reynolds scores 42; No. 2 Chartiers Valley tops No. 1 New Castle
February 12, 2021
Chartiers Valley’s Brayden Reynolds says his Colts weren’t themselves last month when they hosted New Castle and maybe focused too much on the hype.
Central Catholic lineman Bralen Henderson ‘grinds’ path to Ohio commitment
February 10, 2021
In a normal recruiting year, Bralen Henderson would’ve visited with the dozens of college football coaches who arrive at Central Catholic looking for future players.
Allderdice tops Obama Academy in rematch of City League championship
After going weeks without shooting a basketball, City League scorers will need time to find their touch, predicted Allderdice boys coach Devin Crummie.
WPIAL football players among 30,000 cardboard cutouts in Super Bowl seats
February 7, 2021
WPIAL football fans might recognize some familiar faces in the Super Bowl crowd at Raymond James Stadium.
‘Sigh of relief’ as City League basketball teams ready for delayed season openers
Snow days are sometimes enjoyable but not when you’re a high school basketball player who has waited weeks for a game, and then winter weather extends that wait a few days longer.
New Castle no longer unbeaten, loses to Belle Vernon in semifinal rematch
February 6, 2021
Belle Vernon point guard Devin Whitlock is short in height, quick with the basketball and confident against a trapping defense.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 7, 2021
Class 6A
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 6, 2021
Class 6A
Football officials organize free online clinic to recruit more colleagues
February 4, 2021
If someone’s on the fence about becoming a high school football official, there’s an online clinic Saturday designed just for them.
Blackhawk transfer Lorenzo Jenkins ineligible for playoffs after WPIAL hearing
The WPIAL denied a postseason waiver request from Blackhawk transfer Lorenzo Jenkins, leaving him ineligible for the basketball playoffs this winter and for football playoffs next fall.
WPIAL will use high school venues for basketball, swimming championships
The WPIAL plans to use high school venues this winter for its basketball and swimming championships rather than Pitt’s facilities.
Western Pa.’s top 10 football prospects for the Class of 2022
February 3, 2021
The WPIAL and Pittsburgh City League saw almost a dozen football recruits from their 2021 class sign with Power 5 schools this winter. The ‘22 class will need some help in the coming months to match that number.
Sto-Rox scores 20 consecutive 2nd-half points in section win over Carlynton
February 2, 2021
The halftime clock had almost reached zeroes before Sto-Rox emerged from the boys basketball locker room. Coach Dwight Hines later laughed at the suggestion he was in there delivering the best motivational speech of his life.
Opt-in window opens for basketball teams wanting to enter WPIAL playoffs
February 1, 2021
The WPIAL wants to know: Is your basketball team in or out?
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 31, 2021
Class 6A
North Allegheny’s Khalil Dinkins works to add snarl to his game
As a future Penn State football player, there’s no questioning Khalil Dinkins’ athleticism. But his basketball coach has told him there’s one flaw in his game: He’s too nice.
No. 3 Montour builds 15-point lead, hangs on for victory over Central Valley
January 29, 2021
Isayah Mosley and his Montour teammates held their breath in the final seconds of a 40-38 victory Friday night as host Central Valley missed at the buzzer.
Young North Catholic lineup wins battle of WPIAL champions over Mohawk
Ava Walker and Alayna Rocco are freshmen starters for North Catholic’s girls basketball team, and teammates Dacia Lewandowski and Tori Drevna are only sophomores.
PIAA moves state swimming, diving championships to high school venue
January 28, 2021
The state swimming championships are changing lanes.
PIAA might keep football championships in November, start season earlier
January 27, 2021
Should the state football championship remain in November, even if that requires an earlier start date or smaller playoffs?
Khalil Dinkins’ double-double helps North Allegheny top North Hills in overtime
January 26, 2021
As a future Penn State football player, there’s no questioning Khalil Dinkins’ athleticism. But his basketball coach has told him there’s one flaw in his game: He’s too nice.
WPIAL denies postseason eligibility for Chartiers Valley girls basketball player
January 25, 2021
The Chartiers Valley girls will be missing one of their top players when the WPIAL basketball playoffs arrive this winter.
Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame delays induction ceremony until 2022
January 24, 2021
The Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame has delayed its next induction ceremony until 2022.
Big 33 Football Classic’s Super Bowl streak extended for another year
The Big 33 Football Classic was canceled last spring but the game’s Super Bowl streak continues.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 23, 2021
Class 6A
Chartiers Valley’s state-record winning streak snapped at 64 games
The streak is over.
North Allegheny swimmers continue to ‘shoot for excellence’
Swimmers aren’t yet sure how many of them will qualify for the WPIAL championship meet but that’s just the latest twist in what’s been a challenging winter.
OLSH avenges last season’s only loss with mercy rule win over Aliquippa
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart waited more than a year for this chance to avenge its only loss from last season.
New Castle backs up No. 1 ranking with victory over No. 2 Chartiers Valley
January 19, 2021
New Castle joined a larger classification this winter but the results seem much the same.
Moon basketball’s Reilly Sunday commits to Duquesne
Moon point guard Reilly Sunday, who’s sidelined this basketball season with a knee injury, committed Tuesday to Duquesne.
63! Chartiers Valley girls break state basketball win streak record
January 18, 2021
Silver balloons hung in Chartiers Valley’s locker room after Monday’s girls basketball game, with some spelling out “yay!” and others “63.”
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 16, 2021
Class 6A
Now healthy, Habib steps into new role for North Allegheny
Greg Habib’s junior season ended early last winter when a player fell into his leg at Seneca Valley’s gym, forced his knee inward and injured his medial collateral ligament.
Chartiers Valley girls quietly tie longest winning streak in state basketball history
There were a couple of high fives when the clock reached zeroes Friday night but nothing more than usual as Chartiers Valley wrapped up a 53-point section win over Moon.
Facing 1-game suspension, Woodland Hills boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic resigns
January 15, 2021
Facing a one-game suspension handed down by his school district, Woodland Hills boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic resigned instead.
Norwin investigates on-court incident between basketball coach, opposing player
January 14, 2021
The WPIAL won’t seek to discipline Norwin’s boys basketball coach for an on-court incident with a player since the school district has already addressed the issue.
Woodland Hills suspends boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic 1 game for social media post
Woodland Hills suspended boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic for one game in response to a social media post last week that criticized game officials.
WPIAL ‘publicly censures’ Woodland Hills basketball coach Matt Furjanic for tweet
January 13, 2021
Woodland Hills boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic tweets mostly about presidential politics to his 436 Twitter followers, but the WPIAL found one of his other posts more controversial.
Blistering 32-point quarter carries new-look North Allegheny past Seneca Valley
North Allegheny’s boys basketball team hasn’t reached triple digits in the past five seasons, which isn’t all that surprising since scoring 100 points is rare in the WPIAL.
Pittsburgh City League winter sports will start Jan. 25
January 11, 2021
City League sports teams can begin their winter seasons Jan. 25, two days before Pittsburgh Public Schools students are expected to resume in-person classes.
Damned if you do: Woodland Hills coach, WPIAL board to chat about Tweet
Woodland Hills boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic has a no cursing policy and violators run sprints at practice. Now, Furjanic might be the one running, although he disputes whether the word he uttered should count.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 10, 2021
Class 6A
Deep roster to play key role for North Hills boys basketball
North Hills boys basketball coach Buzz Gabos has plans for the 10th, 11th and maybe even 12th player on the team’s bench.
Lincoln Park caps unofficial tip-off tournament with win over Central Catholic
L.A. Pratt’s calf was cramping but he had a wide-open hoop ahead of him, so he waved off the timeout and finished a one-legged layup.
Mt. Lebanon’s strong 3rd quarter spoils Jeff Ackermann’s Baldwin debut
January 9, 2021
After practicing just four times since late November, Mt. Lebanon coach Joe David could only wonder what his basketball team might look like this season.
Return policy: Answering the big questions as WPIAL teams get back on the court
January 7, 2021
Worried? Skeptical? Angry?
Uniontown leaving WPIAL football for independent schedule
January 6, 2021
Uniontown is leaving WPIAL football for an independent schedule, a decision school administrators hope can spark a struggling program.
Gov. Wolf: Shutdown of high school sports will end Monday
December 30, 2020
After a three-week pause of interscholastic sports, it’s time to push “play.”
PIAA, WPIAL delay team wrestling championships
December 22, 2020
The PIAA remains committed to crowning team wrestling champions this winter, but for now it doesn’t know when or where.
PIAA relaxes preseason practice rule, anticipates restarting sports Jan. 4
Help has arrived for high school teams that fell behind schedule on their preseason practices.
5 Central Valley teammates voted all-state; Ameer Dudley named top player in 3A
Undefeated Central Valley was unmatched this season, a dominance that was rewarded in all-state voting Tuesday.
Beaver Falls trio leads 7 WPIAL players on Class 2A all-state football team
A month after winning a WPIAL football title, Beaver Falls teammates Josh Hough, Mitchell Myers and Tyler Jones have reason to celebrate again.
Jeannette’s Birch brothers among 7 WPIAL players named all-state in Class A
Jeannette brothers Brett and Brad Birch, who combined to lead the Jayhawks to a WPIAL title, are together again.
WPIAL adopts ‘open tournament’ for basketball playoffs allowing all teams to participate
December 21, 2020
WPIAL basketball teams can forget about playoff scenarios this winter.
Subsection wrestling tournaments among ideas WPIAL board to consider
December 20, 2020
The WPIAL wrestling committee wants subsection tournaments added to the individual postseason schedule this winter as the league adjusts to covid-19 restrictions.
PIAA will consider relaxing 15-practice requirement for winter sports teams
December 18, 2020
Will the PIAA let athletes skip practice? Some coaches hope so.
North Catholic sweeps MVP awards on Allegheny 7 all-conference football team
December 17, 2020
Conference champion North Catholic was rewarded with nine first-team spots on the all-Allegheny Seven football team, and three Trojans earned individual awards in a vote of coaches.
WPIAL finalists Jeannette, Clairton lead all-Eastern Conference football team
WPIAL Class A finalists Jeannette and Clairton combined to earn 19 first-team spots on the all-Eastern Conference football team in a vote of coaches.
WPIAL’s 2021 football recruits make commitments official by signing early
December 16, 2020
For the fourth year, the NCAA allowed college football recruits to sign early, making their commitments official in mid December rather than early February.
WPIAL champion coach brings spark to North Allegheny boys basketball
December 13, 2020
Matt McDonough and Robby Jones knew there would be some wide eyes in the gym, so they offered words of advice to their North Allegheny teammates about new basketball coach Dan DeRose.
WPIAL teams in action Friday night savor the moment, worry about what’s next
December 12, 2020
In all of his years as the Mars boys basketball coach, Rob Carmody has never celebrated an undefeated season.
PIAA doesn’t anticipate ‘pause’ becoming lengthy shutdown
December 11, 2020
PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi said he doesn’t believe this “pause” of interscholastic sports will drag on for months like the shutdown last spring.
Gov. Wolf shuts down interscholastic, recreational sports until Jan. 4
December 10, 2020
With covid-19 cases increasing statewide, Gov. Tom Wolf “paused” interscholastic and recreational sports Thursday, one day before high school teams were scheduled to start their winter schedules.
PIAA moves forward with winter sports despite pleas from school administrators
December 9, 2020
The PIAA will let winter sports start Friday as scheduled over pleas from school administrators asking to delay as covid-19 cases rise.
Trib HSSN 2020-21 WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball preseason breakdown
December 8, 2020
This will surely be a boys basketball season like no other.
Trib HSSN 2020-21 WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball preseason breakdown
December 7, 2020
This will surely be a boys basketball season like no other.
School districts’ masks policies could impact WPIAL competitions
“Mask or no mask” has become a WPIAL dilemma.
Undefeated state champions lead Trib 25 football all-stars
December 6, 2020
Two WPIAL teams went unbeaten from start to finish, remarkable seasons that included lopsided wins, running clocks and record-setting stats.
North Allegheny looking to again contend for PIHL Penguins Cup title
December 5, 2020
The PIHL shut down its playoffs before reaching the finals last season, so North Allegheny coach Mike Bagnato told his players to consider themselves the reigning champions.
Shenango, Rochester top all-conference selections for Big 7 football team
December 4, 2020
Shenango and Rochester tied atop the Big Seven standings and had five players apiece earn first-team all-conference honors in the WPIAL Class A conference.
California leads Tri-County South with 9 all-conference football players
California running back Jaeden Zuzak, the WPIAL’s third-leading rusher this season, was among 45 players named all-conference in the Class A Tri-County South.
10 Apollo-Ridge players earn 1st-team honors in Allegheny Conference
Apollo-Ridge running back Logan Harmon and lineman Greg Klingensmith were among 10 Vikings who earned first-team all-conference honors in the Class 2A Allegheny.
Beaver Falls’ Josh Hough, Laurel’s Mitch Miles earn top conference honors in MAC
WPIAL champion Beaver Falls earned seven first-team spots on the Midwestern all-conference team led by senior Josh Hough, who was named offensive player of the year.
McGuffey quarterback, lineman, coach earn all-conference awards in Century
McGuffey quarterback Rocco Falosk and lineman Aiden Brookman each earned individual conference honors after leading the Highlanders to the Century title.
Sto-Rox, Western Beaver lead Three Rivers all-conference football team
December 3, 2020
Sto-Rox and Western Beaver, which tied atop the Class 2A Three Rivers standings, led the all-conference voting with six first-team players.
Pittsburgh Public Schools postpones City League winter sports until January
Pittsburgh Public Schools has delayed the start of winter sports in the City League until at least January.
Elizabeth Forward leads Interstate all-conference vote with 8 first-team picks
Elizabeth Forward celebrated the second undefeated regular season in school history, an achievement that was rewarded in the all-conference voting.
Central Valley sweeps individual awards on Northwestern 6 all-conference team
December 2, 2020
Much like during the season, Central Valley again stood atop the Northwestern Six, this time in the all-conference voting.
Chartiers Valley basketball’s Aislin Malcolm commits to Pitt
Chartiers Valley junior Aislin Malcolm already has two wins on her future home court.
Beaver Falls football rallies around trainer touched by coronavirus tragedy
As an athletic trainer for high school sports teams, Dan Summers made it his responsibility to keep Beaver Falls football players safe from coronavirus. Hand sanitizer was taped to the back of his golf cart, and he used a water sprayer to cool athletes from a safe distance during practice.
7 players named all-conference for both offense, defense on Big 8 football team
December 1, 2020
Belle Vernon’s Devin Whitlock and McKeesport’s Colin Lyons were among seven players who earned first-team all-conference honors on both sides of the football in the Class 4A Big Eight.
Aliquippa, Chartiers Valley lead all-conference football team in Parkway
Aliquippa’s Vernon Redd and Chartiers Valley’s Anthony Collura earned all-conference honors on both sides of the football in the Class 4A Parkway.
Plum earns 10 all-conference picks after undefeated record in Greater Allegheny
Plum celebrated its first undefeated regular season since 1977, an accomplishment that was rewarded in the all-conference voting by Greater Allegheny coaches.
PIAA savors fall season completed against all odds
November 30, 2020
There was cause to celebrate, but PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi probably didn’t spike the football or exchange high-fives after the state championships finished Saturday night.
Penn-Trafford leads all-conference picks on Big East football team
Penn-Trafford quarterback Ethan Carr was among 10 teammates who earned first-team all-conference honors, and Warriors coach John Ruane earned Coach of the Year honors in the Class 5A Big East this season.
Central Catholic leads WPIAL Class 6A all-conference football team
WPIAL champion Central Catholic had eight players earn first-team all-conference honors in Class 6A, including running back Eddy Tillman, who led the largest classification in rushing.
Pine-Richland earns 12 all-conference spots on Northeast football team
A dozen Pine-Richland players earned first-team all-conference honors in the Class 5A Northeast, including the record-setting combination of quarterback Cole Spencer and receiver Eli Jochem.
Peters Township tops Allegheny 6 all-conference football team
Peters Township reached the WPIAL finals for the second year in a row and was rewarded with eight first-team spots on the Allegheny Six all-conference team.
Thomas Jefferson defends title, captures 5th PIAA football championship
November 28, 2020
HERSHEY — Style points aren’t important to Thomas Jefferson’s football team, or else the Jaguars coaching staff wouldn’t be wearing shorts in 40-degree weather.
PIAA Class 4A championship breakdown: Thomas Jefferson vs. Jersey Shore
Thomas Jefferson vs. Jersey Shore
Pine-Richland routs Cathedral Prep to claim PIAA Class 5A title
November 27, 2020
HERSHEY — Luke Miller was a Pine-Richland waterboy four years ago when the Rams last celebrated a state football championship at Hersheypark Stadium.
Central Valley caps undefeated season with PIAA Class 3A championship
HERSHEY — The second-half clock usually moves lightning quick for Central Valley games, but this time the Warriors insisted it felt excruciatingly slow.
5 things to watch at the PIAA football championships
With a laugh, Cathedral Prep coach Mike Mischler brags that his defense hasn’t given up a point in weeks.
PIAA Class 5A football championship breakdown: Pine-Richland vs. Cathedral Prep
November 26, 2020
Pine-Richland vs. Cathedral Prep
PIAA championship ‘final chapter’ for record-setting Pine-Richland seniors
Cole Spencer has won more games than any quarterback in Pine-Richland history, and Eli Jochem owns all-time receiving records for catches and yards.
Few tickets. No locker rooms. Covid-19 alters football team plans for PIAA championships
November 25, 2020
Central Valley’s football players will eat Thanksgiving dinner at the school, enjoying food served only by their coaches, before the team boards its buses to Hershey.
Thomas Jefferson doesn’t look back while chasing consecutive PIAA Class 4A titles
November 24, 2020
Thomas Jefferson likes to celebrate its championship tradition, but this year’s football team has grown a little tired of talking about last year’s accomplishments.
PIAA drastically cuts football championship tickets to meet Gov. Wolf’s order
State championship football teams will receive 386 tickets apiece from the PIAA for this weekend’s games, far fewer than originally planned.
PIAA puts football ticket sales on hold after governor tightens gathering limits
November 23, 2020
Ticket sales are on hold for the PIAA football championships after Gov. Tom Wolf announced new limits on gathering sizes.
Pine-Richland headed to Hershey after wild win over Governor Mifflin
November 21, 2020
HOLLIDAYSBURG — “It was over” when Pine-Richland stumbled off the bus and let Governor Mifflin score the first three touchdowns.
Pine-Richland’s stout run defense faces star tailback in PIAA 5A semifinals
Here’s what makes Pine-Richland’s semifinal opponent dangerous:
Defending champion Thomas Jefferson routs Oil City, returns to PIAA 4A final
November 20, 2020
Thomas Jefferson had the football 10 times Friday night and scored nine touchdowns, an almost-perfect performance that has the Jaguars headed back to Hershey.
Slowing Wilmington’s running game key for Beaver Falls in PIAA 2A semifinal
November 19, 2020
Studying film of Wilmington’s offensive line made Beaver Falls coach Nick Nardone think back to a Week 2 matchup with Laurel.
Seton LaSalle hires Mauro Monz as football coach
Seton LaSalle reached into its past to find its future football coach.
PIAA urges winter sports teams to ‘set the foundation’ by starting practice Friday
November 18, 2020
The PIAA is encouraging winter sports teams to “set the foundation” by starting preseason practice Friday, if possible.
Individual schools must decide if athletes wear masks for competition, PIAA says
Could wearing a mask during a football game or soccer match be considered an unsafe condition?
WPIAL bans Peters Township band after investigating ‘blackface’ allegations
November 17, 2020
The Peters Township marching band is prohibited from performing at any WPIAL event until the school district submits a plan to “eradicate the social and racial insensitivity displayed by the marching band and its director/supervisors,” the WPIAL announced Tuesday.
Central Valley’s Ameer Dudley chooses Ivy League football, ‘best education’
Three days after winning a WPIAL championship, Central Valley quarterback Ameer Dudley had more reason to celebrate.
WPIAL considers changes to swimming championships, other winter sports
November 16, 2020
The WPIAL might hold its swimming and basketball championships somewhere other than Pitt’s facilities this winter. Of course, that’s assuming there are winter sports championships.
Thomas Jefferson stops Aliquippa in OT in WPIAL finals dream matchup
November 14, 2020
If there was any uncertainty on Thomas Jefferson’s sideline, it was about the high school rules for overtime.
North Allegheny runners elevate their game, sweep PIAA cross country titles
There’s an old theory that Western Pennsylvania cross country runners are better on hilly courses while their counterparts from the east thrive on fast, flat stretches.
Beaver Falls’ big backs will test Sto-Rox in WPIAL Class 2A final
Beaver Falls could use multiple receivers, spread the field and throw the football in Saturday’s WPIAL championship.
Aliquippa brings ‘massive’ line into Class 4A final against Thomas Jefferson
When Thomas Jefferson’s Bill Cherpak talks about Aliquippa’s linemen, he doesn’t compare them with any group he coached to a WPIAL title.
WPIAL Class 4A football championship breakdown: Aliquippa vs. Thomas Jefferson
WPIAL Class 4A football championship
Central Valley claims WPIAL title with yet another dominant performance
November 13, 2020
Call it a mercy mission.
Trib HSSN’s high school football championships primer
The WPIAL will host four football championship games Saturday after holding the Class 3A final Friday night. The Pittsburgh City League also will contest its championship game Saturday afternoon.
Central Catholic football forfeits PIAA quarterfinal over covid-19 concerns
Central Catholic’s run in the state football playoffs is over before it started.
WPIAL Class 2A football championship breakdown: Beaver Falls vs. Sto-Rox
November 12, 2020
WPIAL Class 2A football championship
Central Valley quarterback Ameer Dudley sets commitment date
November 8, 2020
Central Valley quarterback Ameer Dudley has a big game and a big decision ahead.
PIAA announces sites, times for football state semifinals
Central Catholic’s first opponent in the state playoffs will have a home-field advantage.
5 things we learned: Central Catholic coach Terry Totten climbs list with 6th WPIAL title
Only three football coaches have won more WPIAL titles than Central Catholic’s Terry Totten, but he hasn’t spent any time contemplating his place in league history.
Campus visit convinces Gateway’s Derrick Davis to pick LSU
November 7, 2020
Derrick Davis visited Louisiana around the age of 8 for a youth track meet. He finished 17th in the country in the 100-meter dash, an early glimpse of the athleticism that has made him a coveted college football recruit.
Central Catholic tops North Allegheny, repeats as WPIAL Class 6A champion
November 6, 2020
Eddy Tillman scored three rushing touchdowns and Central Catholic’s defense was dominant in the second half Friday night, a familiar combination for the Vikings in recent years.
North Allegheny cross country teams set for unique PIAA championship race
In a typical cross country meet, runners can see the competition ahead of them or hear their footsteps approaching from behind.
5 things to watch: WPIAL 6A finalists linked through their coaches
A chain connects Central Catholic and North Allegheny, but that’s not the only link between the two football teams.
WPIAL Class 6A football finals breakdown: North Allegheny vs. Central Catholic
WPIAL Class 6A football championship
North Allegheny, Central Catholic doubted if anyone would celebrate WPIAL 6A title
Seven times, North Allegheny coach Art Walker has taken a football team to the WPIAL finals. Central Catholic’s Terry Totten has the Vikings in the championship game for the eighth time.
WPIAL will start winter sports on time
November 4, 2020
With the first practices only weeks away, the WPIAL won’t make any changes to the winter sports schedule after receiving mixed feedback from schools.
5 things we learned in opening round of WPIAL football playoffs
October 31, 2020
Sto-Rox’s coach LaRoi Johnson has a bundle of 2-point plays he will call in any situation, but with Friday’s game on the line, he summoned his sophomore kicker.
North Allegheny, North Hills set to host WPIAL football finals
The WPIAL football finals are moving from the North Shore to the North Hills.
Dominant Central Catholic defense shuts out Mt. Lebanon, returns to WPIAL finals
October 30, 2020
Like old west prospectors searching for gold, defensive lineman Bralen Henderson and his Central Catholic teammates spent this fall talking about nuggets.
What to watch in Week 8: Small-school Aliquippa enters 4A playoffs as top seed
The No. 1 seed in WPIAL Class 4A football is one of the smallest schools in the WPIAL.
Central Catholic stands in way of Mt. Lebanon’s 1st WPIAL final since 2000
Mt. Lebanon’s motto this season is simply: Why not us?
PIAA approves covid-19 guidelines for winter, remains ‘cautiously optimistic’
October 29, 2020
PIAA basketball teams should limit the number of individuals on their bench to maintain a social distance of six feet or more when possible.
Pay to play? PIAA board discusses fee for state playoff qualifiers
October 28, 2020
The PIAA might someday charge schools a fee to compete in the state playoffs, creating an alternate source of income as the coronavirus pandemic batters its budget.
PIAA gives teams home-field advantage in state playoffs
Some WPIAL teams will have a home-field advantage in the state playoffs.
WPIAL football committee’s choices leave ‘sour taste’ for some coaches
October 25, 2020
After Avonworth’s regular-season finale was canceled because of coronavirus concerns, football coach Duke Johncour told his players to start preparing for any number of playoff scenarios.
5 things we learned in Week 7: Two leading QBs questionable for WPIAL playoff openers
October 24, 2020
Two of the WPIAL’s top quarterbacks are questionable to play as their teams approach the playoffs.
Breaking down the 2020 WPIAL football playoffs
Here’s a class-by-class breakdown of the WPIAL football playoff brackets:
WPIAL reveals 2020 football playoff brackets
The WPIAL promised its football teams weeks ago that if they canceled games for covid-19, those decisions wouldn’t hurt their qualifying chances come playoff time.
WPIAL football rankings for Week 7
Class 6A
WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel make final predictions for football pairings
This was a football season unlike any other.
Mt. Lebanon tops Seneca Valley with blocked extra point in overtime
October 23, 2020
With its playoff hopes in jeopardy, Mt. Lebanon would’ve gone for two in overtime Friday night, sticking with coach Bob Palko’s win-or-go-home reputation.
Home field in playoffs likely at stake as Mt. Lebanon visits Seneca Valley
If Mt. Lebanon wins Friday’s regular-season finale at Seneca Valley, the Blue Devils will likely receive one of the top two seeds in the WPIAL Class 6A playoffs.
Avonworth cancels Friday football game, Central Valley finds new opponent
October 22, 2020
Avonworth canceled Friday night’s football game over covid-related concerns, Central Valley athletic director Sam Cercone said Thursday.
North Allegheny’s Khalil Dinkins commits to Penn State
October 21, 2020
Video conference calls replaced many of the in-school recruiting visits and campus tours canceled during the pandemic.
5 things we learned in Week 6: WPIAL linemen can score touchdowns too
October 17, 2020
Could there be a quarterback controversy brewing at Pine-Richland?
WPIAL football rankings for Week 6
Class 6A
Covid-19 shutdown forces defending champion North Allegheny girls to turn focus to playoffs
As a defending WPIAL champion, no one would’ve blamed North Allegheny’s girls soccer team for glancing ahead to the playoffs.
Sto-Rox forces 7 turnovers, lets Josh Jenkins shine in victory over Western Beaver
October 16, 2020
Sto-Rox’s Josh Jenkins is a little like Taysom Hill of the New Orleans Saints, says coach LaRoi Johnson. Or, if you want an old-school reference closer to McKees Rocks, he suggests Kordell Stewart.
5 things to watch in Week 6: Some WPIAL conferences may crown no champion
Some WPIAL football conferences may have no champion this season.
Explosive Sto-Rox offense, Western Beaver’s big-play defense share Week 6 limelight
The lights above Sto-Rox’s football field aren’t new, but they might feel a little brighter this week.
WPIAL reveals postseason plans, awards home games to higher seeds
October 14, 2020
If playoff qualifiers can’t be determined from the standings, the WPIAL steering committee for each sport will decide who makes the postseason this fall.
Baldwin, Seneca Valley delay football game to Saturday
Baldwin and Seneca Valley have delayed this week’s football game to Saturday.
PIAA flexibility lets Blackhawk, New Castle reschedule football game Oct. 30
Blackhawk and New Castle rescheduled their postponed football game for Oct. 30, the first week of the WPIAL playoffs, taking advantage of a PIAA decision to let teams extend the regular season.
5 things we learned in WPIAL Week 5
How will the WPIAL decide which football teams make the playoffs since covid-19 cancellations made the standings unbalanced?
After strong section season, North Allegheny runners prepare for championship meets
When North Allegheny’s runners walked to the starting line wearing masks for their early-September scrimmage, coach John Neff wasn’t sure what to expect from cross country season under covid-19 conditions.
Small-school Aliquippa shows big-play ability in victory over Chartiers Valley
October 9, 2020
Aliquippa is a small school known for its big plays.
Covid-19 case forces New Castle to shut down football activities for 2 weeks
New Castle is shutting down its football program for two weeks after a varsity player tested positive for coronavirus, costing the Red Hurricanes at least two games, athletic director Sam Flora said Friday.
5 things to watch in Week 5: Gateway returns to ‘normal’
After a two-week coronavirus hiatus, Gateway’s football team is getting back to normal. Or as close to normal as possible in a week that starts on Wednesday and ends with a game Sunday night.
Aliquippa, Chartiers Valley follow different routes to Parkway clash in Class 4A
October 8, 2020
Anthony Collura heard stories about the horse, the rider and the flaming spear that arrives at Aliquippa football games, but the Chartiers Valley senior wasn’t sure they were true.
PIAA tweaks fall playoff brackets, cross country qualifiers for state championship
October 7, 2020
The PIAA made changes to its fall postseason plans Wednesday including a move that lets more WPIAL runners into the state cross country championships.
PIAA readies covid-19 guidelines for winter, intends to start seasons as scheduled
As fall sports approach the postseason, the PIAA is turning its attention to winter.
New attendance limits remove some stress for WPIAL schools
October 6, 2020
High school administrators across the PIAA were verifying the number of seats in their stadiums and gymnasiums Tuesday after Gov. Tom Wolf eased limits on gathering sizes.
2 WPIAL teams earn national recognition from High School Football America
October 5, 2020
Two WPIAL football teams are earning national attention.
Gateway, Penn-Trafford choose Sunday night kickoff for football game
Sunday night football is coming to the WPIAL.
10 members of WPIAL Diversity & Inclusion Council bring varied experiences
When Loran Cooley met the other individuals chosen for the first WPIAL Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Council, he noticed a long list of doctorates.
4 WPIAL football teams maintain long conference streaks as Penn Hills’ ends
October 4, 2020
One of WPIAL football’s longest active conference winning streaks ended Saturday, leaving four double-digit streaks intact.
5 things we learned in Week 4: Zero tolerance works for Elizabeth Forward
October 3, 2020
If the other team doesn’t score, it can’t win.
WPIAL Football Rankings for Week 4
Here’s a look at this week’s WPIAL football rankings:
Multiple-QB approach working for North Allegheny
The Friday night started with Tanner Potts taking the first snap for North Allegheny’s offense. Ryan Treser handled the second snap, and soon Greg Phillips was behind center for the Tigers.
Gannon Carothers’ versatility helps No. 2 Central Catholic defeat No. 3 Seneca Valley
October 2, 2020
Gannon Carothers’ coaches say the junior plays five positions for Central Catholic, a versatility that seemed invaluable Friday night.
Gov. Wolf: Spectator situation ‘confusing’ for schools, no updated guidance yet
The gathering limits ruled unconstitutional two weeks ago are back in place statewide, leaving some high school athletic directors to ask: Now what?
Spectators again restricted at high school sports but Gov. Wolf says ‘stay tuned’
October 1, 2020
North Allegheny will have a socially distant student section at Friday’s football game, and Norwin is moving forward with its homecoming festivities as planned.
Kiski Area running back Kenneth Blake commits to Albany
September 30, 2020
Kiski Area’s Kenneth Blake will play college football in New York for a team with Western Pennsylvania connections.
Clairton cancels Week 4 football game with Bishop Canevin
Clairton football practices are shut down until next week over covid-19 concerns and Saturday’s game against Bishop Canevin was canceled, the school announced Wednesday night.
5 things we learned in Week 3: Drop in classification lifts WPIAL teams to 3-0 starts
September 26, 2020
After years battling as one of the smallest WPIAL schools in Class 5A football, Chartiers Valley this season became one of the largest in 4A — a move that’s had an immediate impact.
WPIAL Football Rankings for Week 3
Class 6A
Young North Hills boys soccer team looking to build
With almost two dozen sophomores and freshmen on the roster, North Hills boys soccer coach Jared Steigerwald has focused this fall on teaching fundamentals.
North Allegheny answers questions with victory over top-ranked Central Catholic
September 25, 2020
North Allegheny’s Khalil Dinkins knew there were questions about his untested football team entering Friday’s game with rival Central Catholic.
5 things to watch in Week 3: WPIAL No. 1 vs. No. 2 in largest classifications
It’s one vs. two, twice.
Central Catholic’s Eddy Tillman gets home-field advantage vs. North Allegheny
September 24, 2020
Central Catholic’s football team doesn’t have a home field, but running back Eddy Tillman will be close to home Friday night.
WPIAL football playoffs will have 8-team brackets in most classifications
WPIAL football teams can start counting their Gardner Points now, because some will need them to break ties in about five weeks.
PIAA adopts slimmed-down state playoff brackets for fall sports
September 23, 2020
The state playoffs are now a win-and-get-in scenario.
Gov. Wolf’s veto of House Bill 2787 stands as state House override falls short
To the dismay of many high school sports fans, Gov. Tom Wolf’s veto of House Bill 2787 will stand.
WPIAL schools start allowing more spectators as governor’s limits become voluntary
September 22, 2020
Gov. Tom Wolf would prefer schools adhere to his gathering limits at sports events, but acknowledged Tuesday they’re not legally binding “at least for the moment.”
WPIAL chooses alternate site for cross country championships
September 21, 2020
Cross country runners who competed last week in the Red, White and Blue Classic got an early look at the WPIAL championship course.
Gov. Wolf vetoes House Bill 2787, leaving high school sports spectators in limbo
Gov. Tom Wolf followed through on his promise Monday and vetoed legislation that would have let school districts set their own attendance limits for sports.
5 things we learned in Week 2 of high school football
September 19, 2020
With Friday night’s win over Mt. Lebanon, a team Canon-McMillan hadn’t defeated in 12 years, the Big Macs bolstered their playoff chances.
WPIAL football rankings for Week 2
Ranking, record and previous week’s ranking:
Under new leadership, North Hills girls soccer optimistic for success
Rick Kabbert was leery he’d face some skepticism.
Top-ranked Pine-Richland wastes no time in victory over No. 4 Upper St. Clair
Pine-Richland quarterback Cole Spencer had the football in his hands so often Friday night that he felt like he’d left a half-dozen touchdowns on the field.
Wolf administration asks schools to voluntarily enforce gathering limits
September 18, 2020
The updated guidance for high school sports and spectators promised by Gov. Tom Wolf was a no-show Friday.
5 things to watch in Week 2: Seneca Valley among 7 teams ready for delayed openers
Tired of making each other black and blue, Seneca Valley’s football players want to hit somebody not wearing blue and black.
Baldwin cancels 2 football games after coach tests positive for covid-19
September 17, 2020
Baldwin shut down all football activities for at least 14 days after a member of the coaching staff tested positive for covid-19, the school announced Thursday.
Attendance limits force Neshannock football mother to experience ‘worst fear’ from afar
Landon Shaffer’s parents were allotted one ticket for his high school football game, so his mother resorted to watching a video stream on her cell phone.
West Greene-California football game postponed over covid-19 concerns
September 16, 2020
Covid-19 concerns caused West Greene to postpone Friday’s football game against California.
Gov. Wolf: Schools will receive updated guidance on sports spectators this week
The state Department of Education will release updated guidance this week regarding spectators at interscholastic sporting events, Gov. Tom Wolf said Wednesday.
State lawmakers urge Gov. Wolf to sign bill, let schools set spectator limits for sports
A bipartisan group of state lawmakers gathered Wednesday and urged Gov. Tom Wolf to sign House Bill 2787, legislation that lets individual schools set spectator limits for sports.
5 things we learned from WPIAL Week 1: Smattering of fans an ‘eerie’ atmosphere
September 12, 2020
WPIAL football looked familiar, but it certainly sounded quieter than ever.
WPIAL football rankings for Week 1
WPIAL football
Upper St. Clair stays grounded, defeats rival Bethel Park with 5 rushing TDs
September 11, 2020
Dual-threat quarterback Ethan Dahlem scored twice Friday night, yet Upper St. Clair didn’t need him to carry the load alone anymore.
Sto-Rox cancels football game 3 hours before kickoff
A few hours before kickoff, Sto-Rox canceled its season-opening football game.
Controlling tempo key for Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park in Allegheny 6 opener
Mike Junko doesn’t make his team run gassers, suicide sprints or whatever other name the exhausting workouts are called.
North Allegheny boys soccer focused on finishing chances
September 10, 2020
In soccer coach Bobby Vosmaer’s view, his North Allegheny boys need to finish their scoring chances to keep their season from ending early again.
Waynesburg adds Ariz. wrestling champion as WPIAL sorts out-of-state transfers
For the second year in a row, Waynesburg’s wrestling team has added a state champion from another part of the country.
Gov. Wolf says schools shouldn’t decide spectator limits for sports
Advocates for House Bill 2787 are ignoring reality, said Gov. Tom Wolf, who insisted Thursday that individual schools shouldn’t set their own attendance policies for athletics.
Serra Catholic postpones football team’s season opener
Serra Catholic, which closed its school building for a couple of days this week, has also postponed its football team’s season opener.
WPIAL football teams ready to embark on season like no other
After an evening of continuous collisions, two of the WPIAL’s top football teams wanted to show their respect for one another, but they weren’t exactly sure how.
Central Catholic transfer Langston Moses wins appeal, eligible for basketball playoffs
September 9, 2020
If Central Catholic qualifies for the WPIAL basketball playoffs, junior Langston Moses is eligible to take part this winter, the WPIAL decided Wednesday.
Pa. Senate passes bill letting school districts decide who attends sporting events
If House Bill 2787 becomes law, state Rep. Mike Reese plans to watch some high school football games and see his niece play volleyball at Hempfield.
Veteran QB Cole Spencer leads Pine-Richland into new Class 5A schedule
September 7, 2020
Pine-Richland quarterback Cole Spencer threw for nearly 3,000 yards last season, but that isn’t the number his coach likes most.
North Hills to rely on senior class to navigate new-look conference slate
North Hills enters the fall with a football team that’s senior-heavy but light on experience.
WPIAL sets football playoffs for 2021, but this year’s format clouded by covid-19
September 6, 2020
Covid-19 uncertainty clouds this year’s playoff picture, but the WPIAL did make a recent decision about the 2021 football postseason.
WPIAL Class 5A football breakdown: South Fayette, Pine-Richland face new challenges
How long has it been since South Fayette wasn’t a clear conference favorite?
Gateway junior Patrick Body Jr. becomes 2nd Gators safety with Pitt offer
There’s already a four-star safety in Gateway’s senior class, but now there’s a Power 5 defensive back in the junior class as well.
One WPIAL football team expects hundreds of fans at its opener: South Fayette
September 4, 2020
South Fayette’s football team will travel two hours for its season opener, but there is an obvious silver lining. By playing a game out of state, the Lions can have a couple of hundred of their fans in the stands.
Legislation that gives schools say on spectators moves closer to Gov. Wolf’s desk
September 3, 2020
Before WPIAL football teams kick off next week, state lawmakers may send a bill to Gov. Tom Wolf’s desk that would let more spectators attend interscholastic events.
Gov. Wolf lifts ban on spectators at interscholastic sports
September 2, 2020
Spectators can watch football, soccer and all other high school sports this fall after Gov. Tom Wolf lifted his ban on fans at interscholastic athletics. But Wolf kept strict limits on gathering sizes, meaning many stadium seats and gym bleachers might stay empty.
Almost every member school will play fall sports, WPIAL survey says
September 1, 2020
The results of the WPIAL survey are clear: Almost everyone is playing fall sports.
PIAA rejects Thursday kickoff request for WPIAL football season
High school football season won’t start on a Thursday night.
Central Catholic returns 2,000-yard rusher but QB job remains 5-way battle
August 31, 2020
Central Catholic has five guys competing to play quarterback, and whoever wins the job will practice handing the football to Eddy Tillman.
Strong junior class has Mt. Lebanon coach Bob Palko optimistic in Year 2
Mt. Lebanon coach Bob Palko had 14 sophomores earn a varsity letter in his first season with the Blue Devils.
North Allegheny replaces top rusher, passer, receiver from last year’s lineup
North Allegheny coach Art Walker has always had a go-to guy in the backfield, one running back who’d shoulder the bulk of the carries.
Central Catholic football star, Pitt recruit Elliot Donald skipping senior season
August 30, 2020
The possibility he’d infect his granddad or any other family member with covid-19 was too much risk, said Central Catholic football star Elliot Donald, who decided to skip his senior season.
Shady Side Academy delays football season until Week 3
August 28, 2020
Shady Side Academy won’t start football season until Week 3, a decision meant to limit potential exposure to coronavirus.
Uniontown reinstates football, soccer seasons after initially canceling fall contact sports
Football and soccer seasons were reinstated Friday at Uniontown.
Peters Township has high-end talent to contend again
August 27, 2020
Peters Township came within one point of winning the WPIAL Class 5A title last season, but that rain-soaked loss didn’t close the team’s championship window.
Lack of returning starters doesn’t faze Bethel Park
Bethel Park graduated all 11 starters on offense and 10 on defense, but coach Brian DeLallo won’t call this a “rebuilding” year.
South Fayette brings cutting-edge offense into Class 5A competition
South Fayette quarterback Naman Alemada was running the New England Patriots offense at times last season, with plays designed for small-but-quick receivers.
Dahlem, Pantelis return to bolster Upper St. Clair aerial attack
Ethan Dahlem and David Pantelis have a quarterback-receiver connection that Upper St. Clair coach Mike Junko describes as nearly clairvoyant.
Online offseason helps West Allegheny, new coach get up to speed
West Allegheny not only has a new head coach but also a new offensive coordinator and an entirely new offense.
Pittsburgh’s City League teams can start fall sports without delay
August 26, 2020
There will be City League sports this fall.
Covid-19 forces Seneca Valley to cancel football scrimmage, season opener
August 25, 2020
Concerned that an athlete had direct exposure to covid-19, Seneca Valley shut down football workouts indefinitely Tuesday, meaning it also must cancel its preseason scrimmage and season opener.
Would school districts be legally liable for athletes contracting covid-19?
If a school district lets students play sports and one contracts covid-19 with complications, could the school be held legally responsible?
WPIAL sets Sept. 1 deadline for schools to opt out of fall sports
August 24, 2020
The WPIAL believes a large majority of member schools will play sports this fall, but it’s hoping to know for sure in the next week.
Mt. Lebanon shuts down football workouts, must cancel season opener
A positive covid-19 test caused Mt. Lebanon to shut down football activities until next week, a delay that will force the team to cancel its preseason scrimmage and season opener.
Football coaches fear postponement, transfers could doom City League
August 23, 2020
City League football coaches are worried about losing their season, but they’re also fearful they could lose the entire league.
WPIAL treasurer Michael Allison voted ‘no’ to starting fall sports. Here’s why.
August 22, 2020
Hopewell principal Michael Allison is a former high school athlete and coach, the treasurer of the WPIAL and president of the Pennsylvania Principals Association.
PIAA ignores Gov. Wolf’s recommendation, allows fall sports to start Monday
August 21, 2020
High school football season starts Monday, along with soccer, cross country, girls volleyball and all other PIAA fall sports.
Allegheny County schools can play football under health department’s 50-person limit
The PIAA voted to allow high school sports to proceed on schedule. Allegheny County schools got a double dose of good news.
Sto-Rox hires Aliquippa’s Dwight Hines, all-time scorer Kerry Connolly as basketball coaches
After decades in red and black, Dwight Hines is embracing green energy at Sto-Rox.
PIAA set to make ‘biggest announcement’ regarding fall sports
August 20, 2020
The PIAA has been around for more than a century, and Friday’s decision surely ranks among its most debated.
Allegheny County Health Department offers to assist WPIAL with covid-19 restrictions
The WPIAL and Allegheny County Health Department will meet Friday to discuss plans for potentially playing high school sports this fall.
Health department restrictions could force Allegheny County football teams elsewhere
August 19, 2020
If there’s a high school football season this fall, teams from Allegheny County might play home games at stadiums in neighboring counties.
Quaker Valley halts team workouts after off-campus exposure to covid-19
August 18, 2020
Quaker Valley suspended all workouts by its sports teams after learning several athletes were exposed to covid-19 at an off-campus gathering, the school announced Tuesday.
PIAA wants to move forward with fall sports, executive director tells legislators
The PIAA wants to move forward with fall sports, executive director Bob Lombardi told state legislators Tuesday, citing favorable data collected by UPMC athletic trainers.
State’s health secretary says Gov. Wolf won’t mandate cancellation of high school sports
If the PIAA ignores Gov. Tom Wolf’s advice and allows fall sports to continue, his administration won’t turn his strong recommendation into a mandate.
State lawmakers question data used to recommend PIAA sports shutdown
August 17, 2020
Republican state lawmakers are questioning the specific data — or lack thereof — that Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration used to recommend shutting down youth sports this fall.
Freedom cancels football workouts over covid-19 concerns
Freedom administrators canceled football workouts for this week over concerns a player was possibly exposed to the coronavirus.
Kiski School will adopt bubble strategy to play sports
August 15, 2020
The NBA and NHL successfully used an isolation “bubble” to restart their sports, and now Kiski School will take that idea to the high school level.
PIAA ‘disappointed’ with answers in meeting with Gov. Wolf’s staff
August 14, 2020
In a word, Friday’s meeting with Gov. Tom Wolf’s staff was “uneventful.”
Gov. Wolf stands behind fall sports shutdown but says ‘I’m just one person’
August 13, 2020
Gov. Tom Wolf said he’s unlikely to change his recommendation to delay youth sports, no matter what the PIAA says, but described his role as “one person that has an opinion.”
WPIAL suspends Seton LaSalle assistant baseball coach for recruiting
August 12, 2020
A Seton LaSalle assistant baseball coach is facing a yearlong suspension for violating PIAA recruiting rules.
Summit Academy is 2nd WPIAL school to forgo fall sports
Summit Academy won’t play sports this fall, becoming the second WPIAL school to cancel athletics over covid-19 concerns.
State Rep. Mike Reese, Republican lawmakers take on governor on high school sports
August 11, 2020
A recommendation from Gov. Tom Wolf can easily turn into a mandate, said state Rep. Mike Reese, who wants the Legislature to act before that happens with youth sports.
As high school sports debate continues, Levine stands firm, Republicans plan legislation
August 10, 2020
State Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine stood firm Monday on delaying youth sports until next year, and two state legislators announced plans to join the debate over high school athletics.
WPIAL calls Gov. Wolf’s recommendation ‘uncalculated, inconsistent and unfair’
The WPIAL strongly supports playing high school sports this fall despite Gov. Tom Wolf’s recommendation they be postponed until January.
If PIAA shuts down, AAU teams, other private programs could flourish
August 7, 2020
Western Pa. Bruins basketball director John Tate jokes that his doctor recommends he eat fewer salt and vinegar chips. In many ways, he views Gov. Tom Wolf’s newest sports recommendation that same way.
PIAA delays fall sports for 2 weeks to talk with Gov. Wolf, state legislature
The PIAA heard “thousands of voices,” so it’s trying to save fall sports.
State legislator urges PIAA to keep high school sports in fall
The governor wants high school sports delayed until January, but at least one member of the state legislature disagrees.
Pittsburgh Public Schools plans to postpone fall sports in City League
August 6, 2020
Pittsburgh Public Schools announced plans Thursday to postpone fall sports in the City League, a move tied to the district’s decision to start classes exclusively online.
Gov. Wolf recommends high school sports be delayed until Jan. 1
With fall sports in the balance, will the PIAA treat Gov. Tom Wolf’s recommendation as a suggestion or a mandate?
Uncertainty remains for spectators hoping to attend high school games
August 5, 2020
New covid-19 guidelines for spectators at high school sporting events weren’t released Wednesday as many school administrators, coaches and fans had hoped.
Former WPIAL star Phil Jurkovec receives NCAA waiver, eligible at Boston College
August 4, 2020
Former WPIAL star quarterback Phil Jurkovec, who transferred from Notre Dame to Boston College in January, was granted an NCAA waiver Tuesday that makes him immediately eligible.
Central Valley’s Myles Walker commits to Akron
Central Valley’s Myles Walker, who celebrated a WPIAL football title last fall, committed Monday to Akron.
North Allegheny’s Nate Hoke commits to ‘dream school’ BYU, where dad played
Nate Hoke doesn’t promote himself on social media like many athletes his age.
Gov. Wolf: Online-only schools shouldn’t play sports this fall
August 3, 2020
Online classes await students at a number of schools this fall, but that wasn’t expected to keep their sports teams from competing.
Penn Hills could become 2nd WPIAL school to drop ‘Indians’ nickname
Penn Hills may become the second WPIAL school to drop its Indians nickname.
Patriot League school Lehigh ‘checked all boxes’ for Baldwin safety Connor Lavelle
Two of the colleges recruiting Connor Lavelle are about 15 miles apart in Eastern Pennsylvania, so he visited both on the same road trip.
WPIAL football recruits share written scholarship offers as Aug. 1 arrives
August 1, 2020
Now, it’s in writing.
WPIAL reveals 2 playoff formats with 8- or 4-team football brackets
July 31, 2020
The WPIAL revealed two football playoff options Friday, one if there are state playoffs this fall and another if they’re canceled in advance.
WPIAL delays start dates for fall sports
The WPIAL delayed the start date for most fall sports, a decision executive director Amy Scheuneman compared to a two-hour delay on a winter morning.
Start dates for WPIAL fall sports likely changing after board adopts ‘hybrid’ option
July 30, 2020
The start dates for WPIAL fall sports likely are changing.
PIAA emphasizes ban on spectators comes from Gov. Wolf — not PIAA
The PIAA released a statement Thursday emphasizing that the current ban on spectators at high school sports events was imposed by Gov. Tom Wolf — not the PIAA.
Some changes to fall sports timeline still on the table after PIAA meeting
July 29, 2020
Fall sports season might end earlier for some schools and start a little later for others.
No spectators allowed, according to new PIAA covid-19 guidelines
High school sports remain on schedule for the fall, but the new PIAA covid-19 guidelines approved Wednesday describe a season unlike any other.
Pa. health secretary: Data will guide state’s approach to high school sports
July 28, 2020
The PIAA Sports Medicine Advisory Committee strongly recommends starting high school sports on time, but Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine declined to endorse that decision Tuesday.
Central Catholic basketball transfer Langston Moses eligible for regular season, WPIAL says
July 27, 2020
Central Catholic transfer Langston Moses is eligible for next boys basketball season but ineligible to play in the postseason, the WPIAL decided Monday.
WPIAL finals at Heinz Field in question as PIAA considers shorter football season
The WPIAL might not use Heinz Field for its football championships this fall for multiple reasons.
Dayton extends 1st Division I offers to 3 WPIAL football recruits
Three WPIAL football players drew their first Division I offers from the same Ohio school.
Football coaches association optimistic PIAA starts on time, offers scenarios if delayed
July 26, 2020
The Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association shared nine different scenarios with the PIAA in recent weeks, each with a different start date for the fall season.
With allegations behind him, Nick Lackovich returns as Aliquippa boys basketball coach
July 24, 2020
This was more than a job opportunity for Nick Lackovich, who was rehired Thursday as Aliquippa’s boys basketball coach.
No locker rooms at halftime? PIAA readies sport-specific guidelines for fall
July 23, 2020
The PIAA will release sport-specific guidelines for teams, coaches and officials next week, a key step in the return-to-play process for high school athletics.
Central Catholic running back Eddy Tillman announces 1st Division I offer
July 22, 2020
Central Catholic running back Eddy Tillman, a 2,000-yard rusher last season, received his first Division I college offer this week.
Flipped? Condensed? Overlapped? Options aren’t ideal if PIAA seasons need altered
There are days when Aaron Albert coaches football in the morning, sprints to his real estate job for a few hours and then heads to the ballpark for evening baseball.
Trinity’s Courtney Dahlquist commits to Big South champion Campbell
July 21, 2020
The Campbell women’s basketball roster is dotted with players from North Carolina and Virginia down to Florida, fitting for a team in the Big South.
Pine-Richland wide receiver Eli Jochem adds 1st Division I offer
Pine-Richland’s Eli Jochem, one of the WPIAL’s top receivers, announced his first Division I offer Monday from Fordham.
PIAA approves winter championship sites for next 4 seasons
July 19, 2020
Get your Hershey’s chocolate ready.
PIAA approves kicking game, scrimmage options for sub-varsity football teams
Middle school, junior high and junior varsity football coaches can eliminate kickoffs and punts this season, or turn their games into scrimmages, if they choose.
Heavily recruited Peters Township safety Donovan McMillon commits to Florida
July 18, 2020
At this time last summer, Peters Township safety Donovan McMillon didn’t have a single Division I football offer.
2 WPIAL rising sophomores add basketball offers from Minnesota
July 17, 2020
Minnesota women’s basketball coach Lindsay Whalen, a former Olympian and WNBA star, is recruiting two of the WPIAL’s top rising sophomores.
Neighboring states delay fall sports, but PIAA says ‘our folks don’t want that’
Pennsylvania is surrounded on three sides by states that already have delayed the start of fall sports, a list New York joined late this week.
PIAA approves weight class reduction for wrestling from 14 to 13
July 16, 2020
PIAA wrestling is dropping weight.
PIAA moving forward with fall sports as scheduled
July 15, 2020
The PIAA won’t cancel or delay fall sports, for now.
2 WPIAL sophomores announce basketball offers from Marshall
July 14, 2020
Two rising sophomores in WPIAL girls basketball received Division I offers from the same school Tuesday.
Perry searching for new football coach after Rod Rutherford resigns
Perry football coach Rod Rutherford has resigned, leaving his alma mater searching for a replacement just weeks before the season starts.
Pine-Richland’s Miguel Jackson becomes 3rd WPIAL senior committed to Liberty
Pine-Richland’s Miguel Jackson visited Liberty’s campus on Independence Day weekend and saw some fireworks on the drive home.
Pitt, Penn State make the cut as Gateway’s Derrick Davis narrows his college options
July 12, 2020
Pitt and Penn State both made the cut Sunday as Gateway football star Derrick Davis narrowed his college recruiting options.
Avonworth tight end Trevor Faulkner commits to Air Force Academy
Avonworth rising senior Trevor Faulkner, who had more than a dozen Division I offers, committed Sunday to Air Force.
Pitt commit Nahki Johnson announces offer from national champion LSU
July 11, 2020
West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson committed to Pitt last summer, but on Saturday night he announced an offer from the defending BCS national champion.
Gateway’s Derrick Davis ready to narrow college football offers to Top 7
The WPIAL’s top football recruit is getting closer to a decision.
A few more doors open for Black athletic directors as WPIAL tries to promote diversity
When Sto-Rox hired LaRoi Johnson as athletic director this summer, he used social media to thank those who had opened doors for him in his career.
Another neighboring state decides to delay high school football season
Another of Pennsylvania’s neighbors is delaying the start of high school football season.
Mt. Lebanon’s Ashleigh Connor adds 1st Division I basketball offer
July 10, 2020
Mt. Lebanon’s Ashleigh Connor, one of the WPIAL’s top rising juniors, announced her first Division I basketball offer Friday from Xavier.
Should high school teams follow professional, college sports and test for covid-19?
July 7, 2020
Coronavirus testing is being used by professional and college teams to restart their seasons, so why not high school sports?
Coronavirus pandemic could worsen WPIAL shortage of football officials
July 4, 2020
The WPIAL doesn’t have enough football officials, and the coronavirus pandemic could make the shortage worse this fall.
Athletes not required to wear face masks during workouts, state says
July 3, 2020
Pennsylvania’s athletes are not required to wear a face mask during workouts or competition, according to guidance provided Friday by Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration.
Return-to-football workouts expose those ‘slacking’ when schools closed
Central Catholic’s campus was closed for three months, cutting off access to the football team’s weight room, but most players found ways to stay in shape.
Face mask ‘gray area,’ county restrictions cause schools to cancel workouts
July 2, 2020
Must high school athletes wear face masks during workouts?
Adam Kaufman resigns as Moon boys basketball coach ‘to be a dad’
July 1, 2020
The coronavirus pandemic forced Adam Kaufman to slow down, stay home and spend more time with his family.
PIAA optimistic football season starts on time as some states delay their kickoffs
High school football season won’t start on time in neighboring New Jersey, but Pennsylvania has no plans to delay kickoff.
Woodland Hills halts sports workouts to re-evaluate covid-19 guidelines
Woodland Hills was the first WPIAL school to resume summer workouts, but the Wolverines halted those sessions this week to re-evaluate their covid-19 guidelines.
Shaler uses caution, sends football players home over covid-19 concerns
June 30, 2020
Choosing to take a cautious approach, Shaler coach Jim Ryan sent his football team home early from workouts Tuesday after learning a family friend of a player could have contracted covid-19.
Penn Hills hires former Seton Hill star Chris Giles as boys basketball coach
June 29, 2020
When Chris Giles found out he would be Penn Hills’ new boys basketball coach, he immediately shared the news with the coach he was hired to replace.
Trib HSSN boys athlete of the year: Pine-Richland’s Spencer transforms from star QB to champion wrestler
It’s not uncommon for Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer to be heavier in the fall than in the winter, a transformation that takes him from standout quarterback to champion wrestler.
Trib HSSN looks back at the top high school sports stories of the 2019-20 school year
11.1.19
Report: West A’s Austin Hendrick signs $4 million contract with Cincinnati Reds
June 26, 2020
Former West Allegheny star Austin Hendrick signed with the Cincinnati Reds on Friday.
Canon-McMillan girls soccer coach David Derrico resigns after 2 decades
Canon-McMillan girls soccer coach David Derrico, who won a state title with the Big Macs, resigned this week after two decades with the team.
Sto-Rox hires football coach LaRoi Johnson as AD, opens coaching jobs
June 25, 2020
The Sto-Rox school board hired football coach LaRoi Johnson as athletic director Thursday night and voted to hand him a clean slate of coaches.
Wanting to keep family close, Justin Walther accepts Winchester Thurston basketball job
While searching for a boys basketball job, coach Justin Walther wanted a high school that would treat him like family, but just as importantly, a place he could share with his family.
Aliquippa seeks applicants to replace boys basketball coach Dwight Hines
The Aliquippa school board is accepting applications for a new boys basketball coach, a decision that stunned coach Dwight Hines, whose tenure appears to be over.
Serra Catholic hires A.J. Corso as boys basketball coach
Serra Catholic hired A.J. Corso to take over the boys basketball team, the school announced Thursday.
Radio station. Food truck. Dance studio? Jamal Woodson’s energy earns him Baldwin basketball job
June 24, 2020
Jamal Woodson isn’t wrong when he says he’s got an energetic personality.
2 Pa. football teams, 1 from WPIAL make MaxPreps preseason Top 100 rankings
June 23, 2020
Defending WPIAL champion Central Catholic was one of two Pennsylvania football teams ranked in the MaxPreps preseason Top 100.
Pine-Richland hires assistant Bob Petcash as boys basketball coach
June 22, 2020
Pine-Richland stayed in-house Monday night and hired assistant Bob Petcash as its new boys basketball coach.
WPIAL connections lead Gateway defensive back Shane Thrift to Delaware
Shane Thrift hasn’t visited Delaware’s campus yet, but he’s confident he’ll feel comfortable there.
Pine-Richland’s Miguel Jackson identifies 9 finalists, wants to visit every campus
Pine-Richland defensive lineman Miguel Jackson set out to pick eight finalists from his list of 30 college offers, but that task proved harder than expected.
Montour’s Jaiden Hill sticks with 1st Division I offer, commits to Liberty
June 21, 2020
Jaiden Hill’s first offer turned out to be his favorite.
Q&A with new WPIAL executive director Amy Scheuneman: Will there be fall sports?
June 20, 2020
As Amy Scheuneman points out, there was no coronavirus pandemic when she agreed to become the WPIAL executive director. While that’s true, she’s certainly not running from the challenge.
Noel Roach commits to Akron after talks with former Penn Hills teammate
June 19, 2020
Noel Roach couldn’t visit Akron’s campus, so the Penn Hills senior found other ways to learn about the school and its football program.
WPIAL plans Diversity Advisory Council to better represent minority communities
The WPIAL soon could have a Diversity Advisory Council, created to give a louder voice to the challenges faced by minority communities.
WPIAL eliminates football, basketball pairings meetings in cost-cutting move
June 18, 2020
The longstanding WPIAL playoff tradition that drew football and basketball coaches to a crowded hotel conference room is ending.
PIAA could rewrite co-op rule, making combined teams easier for schools
June 16, 2020
The PIAA could rewrite its co-op rule this summer, making it easier for two schools to form a combined sports team.
Woodland Hills leads WPIAL football back to practice with workouts ‘normal as any other’
Woodland Hills football coach Tim Bostard checked every player’s temperature and nobody was allowed to shake hands.
PIAA approves state football brackets; WPIAL can finalize its playoff plans
June 15, 2020
The PIAA approved state tournament brackets for all sports except basketball Monday, meaning the WPIAL soon can finalize plans for its football playoffs and championship games.
PIAA adopts 2-game suspension for unsportsmanlike actions including ‘racially insensitive comments’
The PIAA strengthened its stance against “ethnic and racially insensitive comments” by making those and other unsportsmanlike actions punishable with a two-game suspension.
Serra baseball star Mark Black commits to juco that produced Jose Bautista, Russell Martin
June 14, 2020
Serra Catholic baseball star Mark Black had his future mapped out way in advance, committing to St. John’s before his sophomore year, until the coronavirus pandemic turned the world upside down.
Pine-Richland defensive lineman Miguel Jackson adds 3 more Division I offers
Pine-Richland defensive lineman Miguel Jackson added three more Division I offers this week, pushing his overall total to about 30.
2-game suspension for foul language, physical contact among items on PIAA agenda Monday
The PIAA could give final approval Monday to a rule change that lets game officials issue a two-game suspensions to coaches and players who cross the line with foul language or make physical contact.
Big 33 plans ‘watch party’ to celebrate players chosen for canceled all-star game
The covid-19 pandemic forced organizers to cancel the Big 33 Football Classic, but this year’s players will be honored online.
PIAA reveals tentative state basketball brackets for 2021, ’22 postseasons
June 13, 2020
The WPIAL will send only four Class 6A boys basketball teams to the state playoffs next season, according to preliminary brackets revealed by the PIAA.
Freshman-year visit leads Sto-Rox linebacker Diontae Givens to Duquesne
June 12, 2020
As a freshman, Diontae Givens tagged along with Sto-Rox football teammates for an unofficial recruiting visit to Duquesne.
West Allegheny’s Austin Hendrick selected 12th overall by Cincinnati Reds in MLB Draft
June 10, 2020
With a quick left-handed swing that packs plenty of pop, West Allegheny’s Austin Hendrick was naturally a Ken Griffey Jr. fan as a kid.
State releases covid-19 guidelines for restarting PIAA sports
Gov. Tom Wolf released covid-19 guidelines for restarting PIAA sports Wednesday, clearing the way for high school sports teams statewide to begin offseason workouts.
Will Austin Hendrick trade West Allegheny red for Cincinnati Reds in MLB draft?
June 9, 2020
Hot dogs with Skyline Chili and evenings at Great American Ball Park could be in Austin Hendrick’s future, if draft experts are correct.
Football coach Ryan Matsook returning to sidelines at Western Beaver
June 8, 2020
At Western Beaver, Ryan Matsook’s work duties already include assistant principal and athletic director.
Gov. Wolf: State will release covid-19 guidelines for PIAA in ‘next day or two’
The wait is almost over.
‘Position-less basketball’ draws Penn Hills’ A’Lysa Sledge to UMass Lowell
June 7, 2020
A’Lysa Sledge owns point guard skills and the size of a forward, a combination that lets her play every position on the floor for Penn Hills.
Indiana rising sophomore Eve Fiala draws Pitt basketball offer
Indiana’s Eve Fiala, who’s part of a talented 2023 WPIAL basketball class, added a scholarship offer Saturday from Pitt.
Sports might return sooner if schools prepare covid-19 plans now, PIAA says
June 5, 2020
The PIAA wants schools to use this downtime wisely.
Quaker Valley’s Bailey Garbee commits to American, turns teammates into rivals
Quaker Valley basketball teammates Bailey Garbee and Corinne Washington made college commitments this spring to separate schools, but they’ll still see one another at least a couple of times a year.
Covid-19 guidelines for PIAA sports won’t be ready this week
June 4, 2020
Athletes, coaches and high school administrators are growing impatient as more counties turn green, but they won’t see return-to-play guidelines for covid-19 until at least next week, according to a spokesman for the Pa. Department of Education.
Who were the PIAA football teams of the decade? MaxPreps ranks the Top 20
The most dominant high school football team in the state last decade wasn’t from Western Pennsylvania, but six WPIAL programs did make the list.
‘Sadness’ for athletes, coaches and alumni as Quigley Catholic closes doors
June 3, 2020
Where’s the rest of your team?
Kiski Area planning for fall sports season despite distance learning decision
Kiski Area’s superintendent announced plans to start next school year online, an approach other districts may adopt, but that doesn’t mean sports are canceled.
4 unanswered questions about PIAA sports, covid-19
June 2, 2020
Here are a few unanswered questions regarding PIAA sports and covid-19:
Penn State eliminated as Peters Township’s McMillon reveals Top 5
June 1, 2020
Peters Township junior Donovan McMillon eliminated Pitt and West Virginia a month ago, and now Penn State also disappeared from his list of college football destinations.
Iowa becomes 1st state to resume high school sports with baseball, softball
While Pennsylvania debates the future of fall sports, Monday was the first day of baseball and softball season for high schools in Iowa.
Will June be busy or quiet for 2021 WPIAL football recruits?
May 31, 2020
June can be a busy month for college football commitments, but will this year be different?
Concern about unsanctioned workouts grows as PIAA awaits guidelines from governor
May 29, 2020
Lawrence County has an abundance of grassy fields, without hash marks or end zones, and there’s probably kids throwing a football around on one.
Canon-Mac lineman Connor McMahon commits to ‘perfect school’ for hard work
May 28, 2020
Connor McMahon received a Naval Academy football offer on Memorial Day weekend and the timing didn’t go unnoticed by the Canon-McMillon junior.
PIAA in ‘holding pattern’ waiting for more information from governor
May 27, 2020
School districts in Lawrence and more than a dozen other Pennsylvania counties will soon enter the green phase, but the PIAA remains in a “holding pattern” waiting to hear what that means for high school sports.
Miniature Wash High gym showcases ‘underground hobby’ of paper stadiums
Trey Ashby never set foot inside Wash High’s basketball gym, but the Nebraska resident can describe the banners on the wall, the paint colors on the floor and the wooden seats that give the place its character.
WPIAL reveals 2021 baseball schedules with ‘long overdue’ 2-game section series
May 26, 2020
If a section opponent had a star pitcher, West Allegheny baseball coach Bryan Cornell always assumed his team would face him twice.
PIAA approves new classifications, divisions for competitive spirit
May 24, 2020
Competitive spirit, which became a PIAA sport eight years ago, will see some changes next season.
As Lawrence County transitions to green, football coaches eager to start workouts
May 22, 2020
Lawrence County is about to turn green, but the battery icon on Joe Cowart’s cell phone was trending toward red.
WPIAL reveals section schedules for 2020-21 basketball season
In WPIAL boys basketball, Butler vs. Pine-Richland has become one of the hottest section rivalries, with overtime finishes and single-digit margins driving up the drama.
Foul language, physical contact would earn 2-game suspension under PIAA proposal
May 21, 2020
The use of foul and vulgar language or physical contact with a PIAA game official, coach or opponent could become a two-game suspension for high school athletes and coaches.
PIAA board refers wrestling weight-class reduction to medical committee
The PIAA board referred a proposal to reduce wrestling weight classes to the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee for discussion.
PIAA denies Lincoln Park appeal, forces boys basketball team to Class 4A
May 20, 2020
The Lincoln Park boys basketball team must move to Class 4A next season after the PIAA denied its final appeal Wednesday.
New coach Dan DeRose wants to win North Allegheny’s first WPIAL boys basketball title
North Allegheny has never won a WPIAL boys basketball title.
PIAA not ready to endorse NFHS guidelines for reopening high school athletics
The PIAA isn’t ready to endorse the return-to-sports guidelines issued Tuesday by the National Federation of State High School Associations.
PIAA board says some teams may resume workouts next month, if governor approves
The PIAA board of directors unanimously supports a county-by-county approach to restarting high school sports, once the governor gives his approval.
National association issues detailed guide for reopening high school athletics
May 19, 2020
Players shouldn’t pass a basketball, hand off a football or share a baseball bat when high school sports workouts first resume, according to guidelines revealed Tuesday by the National Federation of State High School Associations.
WPIAL adopts 2-game series for section baseball schedules, reveals realignment
May 18, 2020
The WPIAL adopted a revamped baseball schedule Monday meant to keep teams from pitching their ace twice against the same section opponent.
North Allegheny expected to hire Dan DeRose as boys basketball coach
Another high-profile WPIAL basketball coach is expected to switch schools this week.
PIAA board of directors to discuss restarting sports county by county
Could the PIAA take a county-by-county approach to restarting sports, or should the entire state resume summer workouts at the same time?
Dek hockey athleticism earns North Hills lineman 1st college football offer
May 17, 2020
At 6-foot-5 and around 230 pounds, North Hills’ Matt Hummel is bigger than most dek hockey players.
Air Force Academy football makes recruiting push into Western Pa.
Two military service academies have successfully recruited Western Pennsylvania football players for years. Combined, Army and Navy had seven former WPIAL athletes on their rosters last fall.
Pine-Richland’s Luke Miller wastes no time making commitment to Kent State
May 16, 2020
Pine-Richland junior Luke Miller didn’t need long to decide.
Thomas Jefferson linebacker Preston Zandier commits to Youngstown State
Not often does a university president get involved in football recruiting, but these are unusual times.
Trinity junior Courtney Dahlquist adds 2 college basketball offers
May 15, 2020
Trinity junior Courtney Dahlquist, who saw her season cut short by the coronavirus outbreak, added two college offers this week.
Coronavirus pandemic speeds up recruiting for Western Pa. Bruins girls basketball players
May 14, 2020
If this were any other spring, Corinne Washington would be traveling to Detroit this weekend with her Western Pa. Bruins teammates for an AAU basketball tournament in the Motor City.
WPIAL reveals new basketball sections for 2020-21 season
May 12, 2020
Central Catholic coach Brian Urso will use this stay-at-home time to binge watch some game film. He spent his first season at Central learning all about the boys basketball teams to the north and now will study Westmoreland County.
NFHS votes down shot clock mandate for high school basketball
May 11, 2020
High school teams can still hold the basketball for as long as they’d like.
Lincoln Park wants PIAA to define ‘participation’ in competitive-balance rule
Lincoln Park athletic director Mike Bariski is curious about the PIAA’s definition of the word “participation.”
PIAA won’t force Chartiers Valley, North Catholic girls into higher classifications
The Chartiers Valley and North Catholic girls basketball teams won’t be forced into a higher classification next season, the PIAA told the schools Monday.
North Allegheny’s Nathan Hoke adds 2 more Division I football offers
May 10, 2020
North Allegheny junior Nathan Hoke, the son of a former Steelers defensive lineman, added two more football teams to his growing list of Division I offers.
7 schools file PIAA appeal contesting competitive-balance rule promotion
May 9, 2020
Seven schools statewide, including three from the WPIAL, filed appeals this week with the PIAA, all hoping their basketball teams can avoid being promoted by the competitive-balance rule.
Baldwin fires girls coach Kyle DeGregorio after defeating state’s top-ranked basketball team
May 8, 2020
Exactly two months after Baldwin’s girls basketball team upset the No. 1-ranked team in the state, coach Kyle DeGregorio lost his job.
Justin Walther resigns at Serra Catholic, seeks big-school basketball job
If you’re a big-school athletic director, Justin Walther would like to talk.
Basketball coach Bill Sacco retires after 18 seasons at Cornell
May 7, 2020
Bill Sacco had already retired from teaching and coaching when he noticed Cornell was hiring a boys basketball coach and decided to apply.
WPIAL board member, retired school administrator Enrico Antonini dies
Enrico “Rego” Antonini, a member of the WPIAL board of directors and a retired Beaver County school administrator, died Tuesday. He was 81.
Baldwin hires 5-time WPIAL champion Jeff Ackermann as boys basketball coach
May 6, 2020
Until this week, Jeff Ackermann coached basketball at Pine-Richland, lived in South Fayette and taught at Chartiers Valley, a commute that saw him and his family crisscross the county.
PIAA forcing 3 WPIAL basketball teams into higher classification, pending appeal
May 5, 2020
Three WPIAL basketball teams will be forced to play in a higher classification next season unless those schools can win a PIAA appeal.
Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame postpones induction banquet to 2021
May 4, 2020
The Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame induction banquet will be postponed until next year, organizers announced Monday, in response to the covid-19 outbreak.
Could coach Jeff Ackermann turn around another basketball program in Baldwin?
Baldwin’s boys basketball team hasn’t won a WPIAL playoff game since 2003. The Highlanders reached the postseason only four times in the 17 years since, with four first-round losses.
Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington commits to Boston University
May 3, 2020
There’s a third Division I basketball player in the Washington household.
Woodland Hills’ Peyton Pinkney commits to Eastern Michigan after virtual tour
May 2, 2020
Woodland Hills junior Peyton Pinkney took a tour of Eastern Michigan’s campus last week and never left her home.
Central Catholic football coaches deliver WPIAL championship rings door to door
What’s better than one WPIAL ring ceremony? How about 23?
Butler’s Ethan Morton named Player of the Year in Class 6A all-state voting
Butler’s Ethan Morton’s quest for a PIAA basketball title was cut short, but the senior earned statewide recognition Saturday as the state’s Class 6A Player of the Year in a vote of Pennsylvania sports writers.
Hotly recruited Peters Township safety Donovan McMillon names Top 10 list
May 1, 2020
Peters Township junior Donovan McMillon, who’s quickly become the WPIAL’s hottest football recruit, announced a top 10 list Friday that included Penn State but not Pitt or West Virginia.
Bethel Park’s Liv Westphal commits to Duquesne
Three years ago, Bethel Park’s Liv Westphal and her family took an unofficial recruiting visit to Duquesne before her freshman year of high school.
Mars’ Michael Carmody, Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher earn all-state honors in Class 5A boys basketball
Mars’ Michael Carmody and Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher, whose teams clashed in the WPIAL boys basketball finals, were named first-team all-state Friday.
‘Size doesn’t matter’ as South Fayette’s Charley Rossi adds first Division I offer
April 30, 2020
Charley Rossi took a break from helping his dad clean out the garage Monday to return a phone call to a college football coach.
WPIAL lands 2 players on Class 4A boys basketball all-state team
Highlands’ Johnny Crise and Central Valley’s Isiah Warfield will play different sports in college, but right now they’re both all-state basketball players.
North Catholic’s DeGregorios share all-state honors in Class 3A boys basketball
April 29, 2020
Two months after celebrating a WPIAL basketball title, North Catholic’s Dave and Isaac DeGregorio are sharing some statewide recognition.
WPIAL approves new basketball sections; won’t reveal them yet
April 28, 2020
Basketball sections for next season are almost ready, but WPIAL players, coaches and fans must wait a little longer to see them.
All-state boys basketball: OLSH’s DiMichele, Spadafora, Rodriguez lead Class 2A team
OLSH junior Dante Spadafora and sophomore Jake DiMichele earned first-team all-state honors Tuesday, and the Chargers’ Mike Rodriguez was named the state’s top coach in Class 2A.
PIAA shouldn’t enforce competitive-balance rule, Lincoln Park basketball coach says
April 27, 2020
If the PIAA competitive-balance rule forces the Lincoln Park boys basketball team into a higher classification next season, coach Mike Bariski thinks that’s unfair.
All-state boys basketball: Cornell’s Kaden DiVito named Player of the Year in Class A
Cornell’s Kaden DiVito, who saw his senior season cut short two wins away from the PIAA finals, earned statewide recognition Monday as the Class A boys basketball player of the year.
Moon sophomore Reilly Sunday adds 5 Division I offers since late March
April 26, 2020
Social distancing hasn’t kept basketball scholarship offers away from Moon’s Reilly Sunday.
Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington adds Duquesne scholarship offer
Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington, one of the WPIAL’s top juniors, added a scholarship offer Saturday from Duquesne women’s basketball coach Dan Burt.
Jeannette to pay sports officials despite cancellation of spring sports season
April 25, 2020
The PIAA canceled spring sports across the state, but Jeannette School District still will pay the officials scheduled to work its games.
WPIAL football has NFL draft streak that’s more than 2 decades long
April 23, 2020
The WPIAL has had at least one former player picked each year in the NFL draft since 1994, a remarkable streak that could be extended again this week.
Upper St. Clair football coach Jim Render among 12 selected for Pa. Sports Hall of Fame
Former Upper St. Clair football coach Jim Render, who retired last summer with the most wins in WPIAL history, was among 12 individuals chosen for induction into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame this fall.
All-state girls basketball: Ellis’ Natalie Jasper, Canevin’s Diajha Allen receive Class 2A honors
April 22, 2020
Ellis School junior Natalie Jasper and Bishop Canevin senior Diajha Allen, who led their teams deep into the playoffs, earned all-state honors Wednesday in Class 2A girls basketball.
All-state girls basketball: Rochester teammates share statewide honors in Class A
Rochester teammates Alexis Robison and Corynne Hauser, who repeated as WPIAL girls basketball champions, drew statewide recognition Wednesday by earning all-state honors in Class A.
All-state girls basketball: Mohawk’s Karly McCutcheon, Carlynton’s Jada Lee honored in Class 3A
April 21, 2020
Mohawk’s Karly McCutcheon and Carlynton’s Jada Lee, whose girls basketball teams met twice in the playoffs this winter, each earned all-state honors Tuesday in Class 3A.
All-state girls basketball: North Catholic’s Tess Myers, Kylee Lewandowski among 6 WPIAL players selected in 4A
North Catholic teammates Tess Myers and Kylee Lewandowski, who extended their team’s WPIAL title streak to four, shared first-team all-state girls basketball honors Tuesday in Class 4A.
Beaver Falls RB/LB Josh Hough commits to Syracuse
April 20, 2020
Beaver Falls junior Josh Hough, who saw his recruiting stock rise quickly in recent months, committed Monday to Syracuse.
Horse or no horse, Penn Hills football schedules scrimmage at Aliquippa
Jon LeDonne is taking his Penn Hills football team to Aliquippa to scrimmage at his alma mater’s stadium this fall.
Peters Township hires new coaches for boys, girls basketball teams
Peters Township filled two vacant coaching jobs Monday night by hiring Joe Urmann to lead the boys basketball team and Bob Miles to lead the girls.
All-state girls basketball: 8 WPIAL players, coach Tim McConnell earn statewide honors in 5A
Chartiers Valley teammates Aislin Malcolm and Megan McConnell earned first-team all-state honors along with Gateway’s Lexi Jackson as WPIAL girls basketball players dominated the statewide Class 5A vote Monday.
All-state girls basketball: NA’s Lizzy Groetsch, Spencer Stefko lead WPIAL’s 6A selections
North Allegheny junior Lizzy Groetsch and coach Spencer Stefko saw their PIAA girls basketball title hopes dashed by the coronavirus outbreak, but both earned statewide recognition Monday.
100 years ago, Pa. held its 1st state basketball tournament, but anniversary celebration on hold
March 19, 2020
Two thousand fans came to the Armory in State College to watch the first state basketball tournament in Pennsylvania high school history, a historic event from exactly 100 years ago.
Coronavirus outbreak could leave 6-figure dent in WPIAL budget
March 18, 2020
The coronavirus outbreak already has spring sports on hold indefinitely, but the WPIAL is bracing for off-the-field impacts as well from the unfolding pandemic.
Union lineman Aaron Gunn commits to Louisville
March 17, 2020
Union junior Aaron Gunn, one of the WPIAL’s top linemen, committed Tuesday to Louisville.
PIAA suspends chapter meetings for game officials until state reopens schools
The PIAA Officials Council has suspended all chapter meetings until Gov. Tom Wolf reopens schools, the PIAA announced in an email to Pennsylvania high school sports officials.
Former Baldwin AD Vince Sortino joining WPIAL administration as assistant to executive director
March 16, 2020
Former Baldwin athletic director Vince Sortino is returning to the WPIAL.
No guarantee spring sports are played, but WPIAL discusses ‘what if’ scenarios
The WPIAL board discussed contingency plans for spring sports season behind closed doors Monday, but “anything at this point is uncertain,” associate executive director Amy Scheuneman said.
Future of spring sports season will be considered Monday by WPIAL board
March 13, 2020
The PIAA already postponed the end of winter sports season, but now spring sports might also be in danger.
Caught in limbo, WPIAL basketball teams wonder if delay turns into cancellation
Along with coaching basketball, Spencer Stefko teaches world cultures at North Allegheny, a job that has him studying the effects of a viral pandemic.
PIAA suspends basketball tournament, swimming championships for 2 weeks
March 12, 2020
The PIAA will reassess the coronavirus situation in two weeks, said executive director Bob Lombardi, and decide then whether to resume the winter sports championships.
Butler completes another crazy comeback, defeats Upper St. Clair in PIAA 2nd round
March 11, 2020
The question on everybody’s mind this week in Butler was: How is Ethan Morton’s injured ankle?
North Allegheny bans spectators from athletics events as coronavirus precaution
In response to coronavirus concerns, North Allegheny will ban spectators from attending all home sporting events until April 13, the school district decided Wednesday.
Girls basketball sites, times: North Allegheny, Bethel Park travel to Bellefonte for PIAA quarterfinals
WPIAL finalists North Allegheny and Bethel Park will play on the same floor Friday night, one after the other as part of a PIAA girls basketball doubleheader at Bald Eagle in Bellefonte.
Boys basketball sites, times: PIAA schedules quarterfinal doubleheader at Hempfield
The PIAA scheduled a boys basketball quarterfinal doubleheader Friday night at Hempfield involving two WPIAL Class A teams.
Mt. Lebanon says it won’t play PIAA tournament game vs. Eastern Pa. team because of coronavirus
Mt. Lebanon School District administrators, concerned about coronavirus, informed the PIAA that its boys basketball team wouldn’t participate in Wednesday night’s playoff game against Eastern Pa. opponent Cheltenham.
Scheduled to close, Vincentian Academy ends basketball season with emotional PIAA loss
This was the teary-eyed postgame talk that coach Tim Tyree dreaded, one that he and his Vincentian Academy players tried to delay for as long as possible.
‘Most spectators’ barred from Ohio high school events over coronavirus concerns; Conn. cancels tournaments
March 10, 2020
Facing concerns about coronavirus, state high school associations across the country are deciding whether to alter their postseason plans.
PIAA moves Butler-Upper St. Clair boys basketball game to Robert Morris
The PIAA has relocated the boys basketball playoff game between Butler and Upper St. Clair to Robert Morris’s UPMC Events Center.
PIAA says skip handshakes, but championships still on schedule despite coronavirus concerns
March 9, 2020
Elbow bumps could replace handshakes.
3 WPIAL indoor track athletes earn 1st-team PTFCA all-state honors
March 8, 2020
Indiana’s Kendall Branan, North Allegheny’s Casey Burton and Shaler’s Cam Mbalo earned first-team all-state indoor track honors from the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.
PIAA announces sites, times for 2nd-round girls basketball games
The PIAA announced sites and times for second-round basketball playoff games Sunday.
PIAA announces sites, times for 2nd-round boys basketball games
The PIAA announced sites and times for second-round basketball playoff games Sunday.
Lincoln Park’s Andre Wilder delays knee surgery with PIAA 1st-round win
March 7, 2020
Andre Wilder is trying to postpone knee surgery one win at a time.
Back from injury, Josh Russell’s 3-pointers lift USC over Allderdice in PIAA 1st round
Upper St. Clair’s unofficial team motto was: “Let’s get Russ in uniform one more time.”
Sean Snead’s 3-pointers lead Obama past Penn Hills in PIAA 1st round
March 6, 2020
A first-half shot can’t be called a game-winner, especially one that only ties the score, but the energy from Sean Snead’s buzzer-beating 3-pointer was felt long after halftime.
WPIAL accepts apology, reduces suspension for Mars’ Michael Carmody
March 5, 2020
The WPIAL accepted senior Michael Carmody’s apology and reduced his suspension to one game, Mars athletic director Scott Heinauer said Thursday.
Mars’ Michael Carmody ‘remorseful, apologetic’ for WPIAL championship actions
March 4, 2020
Michael Carmody came to Green Tree on Wednesday asking for his two-game suspension to be reduced, but first he was there to apologize, said his father, Mars basketball coach Rob Carmody.
Mars’ Michael Carmody faces 2-game suspension for WPIAL championship actions
March 2, 2020
Mars senior Michael Carmody, one of Western Pennsylvania’s top athletes, faces a possible two-game WPIAL suspension for his actions in the Class 5A boys basketball championship.
3 WPIAL track athletes win state titles at PTFCA indoor championship
Indiana senior Kendall Branan was one of three WPIAL track athletes who won state titles Sunday at the PTFCA indoor championship at Penn State.
PIAA girls basketball sites, times for 1st-round games
March 1, 2020
The PIAA announced sites and times for first-round playoff basketball games.
PIAA announces boys basketball sites, times for 1st-round games
The PIAA announced sites and times for first-round playoff basketball games.
Butler tops Mt. Lebanon for WPIAL Class 6A title, team’s 1st since 1991
February 29, 2020
Ethan Morton waited four years for this celebration, but he had tears in his eyes knowing that his coach and his hometown had waited far longer.
Butler, Mt. Lebanon are familiar foes in WPIAL Class 6A championship rematch
Butler was in the locker room getting ready for its semifinal at Robert Morris’ new arena, but senior Ethan Morton tried to catch a little of Mt. Lebanon’s game ahead of theirs.
Star freshman Rodney Gallagher leads Laurel Highlands past Mars in WPIAL Class 5A thriller
February 28, 2020
There are 131,504 residents in Fayette County, and Rodney Gallagher might’ve hugged them all Friday night.
Mars’ Carmody, Laurel Highlands’ Gallagher share spotlight in WPIAL 5A final
One is a 290-pound senior signed to play football at Notre Dame. The other is a 150-pound freshman with Division I basketball offers.
North Catholic upends two-time defending champ Lincoln Park in Class 3A title game
February 27, 2020
Isaac DeGregorio sensed that the run was coming.
North Catholic seeks better shooting night in championship rematch with Lincoln Park
Nearly a year after the loss, North Catholic coach Dave DeGregorio forced himself to watch the video of his team’s WPIAL championship.
Butler rallies past USC in overtime, earns return trip to WPIAL finals
February 26, 2020
Doubt crept into Ethan Morton’s mind for a moment Wednesday night as Butler trailed by five with less than a minute left.
Mars’ Michael Carmody flexes muscles against Chartiers Valley, returns to WPIAL finals
February 25, 2020
Michael Carmody has already won two WPIAL basketball championships and contributed to both, but the Mars senior wasn’t responsible for leading the Planets to Petersen Events Center either time.
Baldwin assistant hired as Bishop Canevin’s 4th football coach in 4 years
Bishop Canevin has hired former Baldwin assistant Richard Johnson as football coach, the school announced Tuesday.
Lincoln Park earns 5th straight trip to WPIAL finals with whistle-heavy win over Aliquippa
February 24, 2020
Nobody wanted 56 fouls called, but nobody was too surprised, either.
WPIAL announces sites, times for basketball semifinals
February 23, 2020
The UPMC Events Center at Robert Morris will host a WPIAL basketball playoff doubleheader Wednesday.
Mt. Lebanon’s Patrick Anderson among nation’s best after TSTCA Indoor Championship
Mt. Lebanon senior Patrick Anderson ran one of the fastest 3,000-meter times in the nation this season at the TSTCA Indoor Championship Saturday at Edinboro.
Strong 2nd half carries Upper St. Clair past Pine-Richland, into semifinals
February 22, 2020
Maybe it is the team’s gritty style. Maybe it is coaching adjustments, or maybe it is just the names on the roster.
Laurel Highlands scores with 3.5 seconds left, stuns No. 1 Penn Hills in WPIAL quarterfinals
February 21, 2020
Laurel Highlands coach Rick Hauger called for a timeout, but the crowd was still raucous from Penn Hills’ game-tying 3-pointer.
South Allegheny uses buzzer-beater to defeat Beaver Falls, reach WPIAL semifinals
February 20, 2020
Bryce Epps wasn’t having his best shooting night, but suddenly a loose ball was at his feet.
West Allegheny hires Dave Schoppe as football coach
West Allegheny looked to its past to find its future head football coach.
Sheldon Cox leads New Castle to WPIAL 1st-round win against Mt. Pleasant
February 19, 2020
If he could’ve changed anything, Mt. Pleasant coach Allan Bilinskyh would’ve picked a gym with tighter rims.
22 WPIAL football players selected for PSFCA East-West Game
Two WPIAL quarterbacks, Seneca Valley’s Gabe Lawson and Baldwin’s Mason Stahl, were chosen to lead the West all-stars in the PSFCA East-West Game on Memorial Day weekend.
Senior-led Bethel Park tops North Allegheny, celebrates 1st playoff win since 2016
The similarities to two years ago had crossed their minds — same gym, same playoff round — but Bethel Park’s seniors made sure the similarities ended there.
WPIAL approves section alignments for winter sports, basketball must wait
February 18, 2020
The WPIAL released updated sections for some winter sports, but basketball won’t be ready for awhile.
WPIAL approves site, schedule change for cross country championships
February 17, 2020
The WPIAL cross country championships will return to Cal (Pa.) next fall with an overhaul to the race schedule.
WPIAL wrestling realignment takes geographical approach
The WPIAL board approved new wrestling sections Monday based more on geography and less on competitive balance.
North Allegheny’s Casey Burton holds No. 1 spot in state long jump rankings
North Allegheny’s Casey Burton ranks first in the state in girls long jump after winning the TSTCA indoor meet Saturday in Edinboro.
Chartiers Valley sophomore Aislin Malcolm receives Princeton offer
Chartiers Valley sophomore Aislin Malcolm, who hasn’t lost a game in two seasons, announced a college basketball offer Sunday from Princeton.
Peters Township safety Donovan McMillon announces Penn State offer
February 16, 2020
Add Penn State’s James Franklin to the growing list of college football coaches hoping to recruit Peters Township junior Donovan McMillon.
North Allegheny junior Khalil Dinkins adds Penn State offer
The college options for North Allegheny’s Khalil Dinkins jumped significantly this month with scholarship offers from Penn State and Michigan.
Dwindling number of high school officials part of troubling nationwide trend
February 15, 2020
As a high school basketball official in his early 20s, Joe Strednak wasn’t much older than the athletes on the court. Occasionally, someone would test his poise as the youngest ref on his crew.
WPIAL’s 2nd-leading scorer exits early as Aliquippa defense stops Steel Valley
Aliquippa had a strategy for facing the WPIAL’s second-leading scorer: Trap Steel Valley’s Camden Polak whenever he touched the ball, keep it out of his hands if possible and make him work for every shot.
10 WPIAL players selected for Big 33 Football Classic
February 12, 2020
Thomas Jefferson teammates Logan Danielson and Mac Duda were among 10 WPIAL players selected Wednesday for the Big 33 Football Classic.
WPIAL seeds Fox Chapel above Upper St. Clair despite late-season loss
February 11, 2020
More than two dozen times, Upper St. Clair coach Danny Holzer has traveled to Green Tree to see the boys basketball playoff brackets revealed.
Breaking down the 2020 WPIAL boys basketball playoffs
Here is a breakdown of the 2020 WPIAL boys basketball playoffs:
Football coach Loran Cooley leaves Baldwin after 3 years for college job
February 10, 2020
Loran Cooley wants to become a full-time football coach once he retires as a Pennsylvania state trooper, a transition that’s not too far in the future.
WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel predict 2020 boys basketball playoff pairings
February 9, 2020
It’s that time of year, WPIAL bracketology 2020.
Pine-Richland schedules Week Zero football game in New Jersey
Twice, Pine-Richland’s football team used Week Zero to play out-of-state opponents from Ohio, and once the team faced a school from Florida.
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 8, 2020
February 8, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 8, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Western Pa.’s top 10 football prospects for the Class of 2021
February 5, 2020
If you wanted to spot some of the top college football coaches in the country, there was no need to fly to Clemson, S.C., or Ann Arbor, Mich.
WPIAL football recruits make commitments official on signing day
The addition of an early signing period in December has reduced the number of Division I recruits using the traditional early-February date, but a handful of WPIAL football seniors waited it out.
Quaker Valley defeats Blackhawk, creates 1st-place tie in unpredictable Section 2
February 4, 2020
The WPIAL’s wildest section won’t tame easily.
WPIAL approves 2 GCC transfers; Bailey Kuhns remains ineligible for basketball playoffs
February 3, 2020
Girls basketball standout Bailey Kuhns is immediately eligible to join Greensburg Central Catholic’s lineup, but the sophomore won’t be allowed to take part in the upcoming playoffs.
WPIAL finds no evidence of racial taunts in Leechburg-Propel Andrew Street game
The WPIAL found no evidence a Propel Andrew Street boys basketball coach was the target of racial taunts during a game last month, but Leechburg will take proactive steps anyway.
WPIAL to hold hearing for Leechburg basketball game, Greensburg CC transfers
February 2, 2020
The WPIAL wants to know why the Propel Andrew Street vs. Leechburg boys basketball game was cut short Jan. 17 and whether anyone in attendance used racially charged taunts.
Trib HSSN WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 1, 2020
February 1, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 1, 2020
WPIAL rankings
WPIAL releases football schedules for 2020 season
January 30, 2020
The loudest complaints from WPIAL football teams were about travel and blowouts.
Central Valley trio announces 1st FBS offers from same MAC school
January 29, 2020
Central Valley teammates Ameer Dudley, Stephon Hall and Myles Walker celebrated a WPIAL football championship last fall at Heinz Field.
Gateway wideout Chamor Price adds 9th FBS offer this month
Gateway wideout Chamor Price had a breakout season last year and college coaches have taken notice.
PIAA rejects Quaker Valley wrestler Hunter Robison’s request to compete in postseason
Quaker Valley transfer Hunter Robison’s hopes to wrestle this season were dashed by the PIAA.
Butler clinches 1st boys basketball section title since 1992
January 28, 2020
Basketball coach Matt Clement was a junior on the team’s roster the last time Butler won a section title, but he watched Tuesday night as that 28-year wait finally ended.
Two-way Gateway football standout Tui Brown commits to UConn
Gateway senior Tui Brown, a two-way standout for the WPIAL champion, committed Sunday to UConn.
Thomas Jefferson’s Shane Stump commits to Duquesne
January 27, 2020
Thomas Jefferson’s Shane Stump, who led the Jaguars to undefeated WPIAL and PIAA football titles, committed Monday to Duquesne.
Colgate football adds another recruit from Mt. Lebanon
Mt. Lebanon senior Evan Jones, an all-conference running back for the Blue Devils, announced his commitment Sunday to Colgate.
PIAA considers significant change for football heat acclimatization week
January 26, 2020
Heat acclimatization week might become a little more eventful for PIAA football teams.
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 25, 2020
January 25, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 25, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Former WPIAL star recruits Montour lineman George Padezanin to Lehigh
Montour lineman George Padezanin committed Saturday to Lehigh, recruited to the Patriot League school by a former WPIAL football standout.
WPIAL, Philadelphia-area football teams separated under PIAA playoff proposal
January 22, 2020
MECHANICSBURG — The PIAA might move Pittsburgh and Philadelphia a little farther apart.
Aliquippa drops PIAA appeal, accepts promotion to Class 4A football
MECHANICSBURG — Aliquippa accepted its football team’s fate Wednesday and the school ended efforts to stay in Class 3A.
Quaker Valley transfer Hunter Robison remains ineligible to wrestle this season
January 21, 2020
Quaker Valley wrestler Hunter Robison, a talented midseason transfer from General McLane, might not suit up for the Quakers this season.
WPIAL rules GCC transfers Bailey Kuhns, Mark Mizerak ineligible
The WPIAL ruled a pair of Greensburg Central Catholic transfers ineligible Monday.
WPIAL will address Propel Andrew Street’s allegations of racial slurs by Leechburg in boys basketball game
January 20, 2020
The WPIAL board voted Monday to call in school administrators and boys basketball coaches from Propel Andrew Street and Leechburg to address allegations of racial slurs.
WPIAL reveals football conference alignment for 2020, 2021 seasons
The WPIAL has witnessed a decline in football attendance, so it took steps Monday to address those concerns.
Big 33 sees 3 alumni reach Super Bowl, extends streak to 54 years
January 19, 2020
The Big 33 Football Classic’s Super Bowl streak continues with help from a former WPIAL athlete.
East Allegheny wide receiver Tyler Padezan commits to Duquesne
East Allegheny’s Tyler Padezan, who earned all-conference honors at wide receiver and defensive back, committed Sunday to Duquesne.
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 18, 2020
January 18, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 18, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Important questions remain as WPIAL football realignment process continues
January 17, 2020
The WPIAL has already requested a weekend at Heinz Field for the football finals, but it’s too early to say which classifications will play their championships at the North Shore stadium.
Woodland Hills basketball showcase draws teams from 7 states for anti-violence event
High school basketball teams from seven states are headed to Woodland Hills this weekend for the Martin Luther King Weekend Stand Against Violence Showcase, a four-day event that features 41 boys and girls varsity games.
Butler football skips independent route, joins District 10 as associate member
January 16, 2020
District 10 accepted Butler’s football team as an associate member Wednesday after the WPIAL endorsed the move.
West Allegheny’s Austin Hendrick next WPIAL standout who could join MLB ranks
January 15, 2020
West Allegheny’s Austin Hendrick tells a story about hitting baseballs two years ago with Neil Walker, the former Pine-Richland player and first-round draft pick of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
WPIAL headed for minor, not major, football realignment
January 14, 2020
WPIAL football will have some smaller conferences and handpicked nonconference matchups next season, but schools don’t want a radical overhaul.
PIAA denies Aliquippa request to remain in Class 3A football
The PIAA competitive-balance rule seems particularly harsh on lower-income communities like Aliquippa, said athletic director Brandon LeDonne, where residents tend to be more transient.
Will Pirates use 1st-round pick on West Allegheny’s Austin Hendrick?
January 13, 2020
West Allegheny baseball star Austin Hendrick, ranked as the top high school bat in the country, is expected to hear his name called early in this summer’s MLB Draft.
Shenango shot putter Emma Callahan ranks 1st nationally in indoor season
January 12, 2020
Shenango sophomore Emma Callahan climbed to the top of the national shot put rankings this weekend.
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 12, 2020
January 11, 2020
WPIAL girls basketball rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 11, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Short-handed Upper St. Clair uses ‘7 starters’ in victory over Bethel Park
With two starters out with injuries, Upper St. Clair could’ve easily explained away a lackluster effort Friday night, but the Panthers made sure that wasn’t necessary.
Charity basketball event draws out-of-state talent to Montour
January 10, 2020
The Winter Jamfest to End Domestic Violence, a five-game basketball showcase, will bring out-of-state talent to Montour’s gym Saturday.
West Allegheny football coach Chris Lucas resigns after 1 season
West Allegheny is searching once again for a new football coach.
Gateway’s Derrick Davis accepts invitation to Under Armour All-American Game
Derrick Davis hasn’t decided his college future yet, but he knows where he’ll be next January.
Quaker Valley wrestling adds transfer ranked 2nd in state
January 9, 2020
Sophomore wrestler Hunter Robison, who’s ranked second in the state, has transferred to Quaker Valley.
2 WPIAL football realignment proposals would cut down on travel
WPIAL football teams will play games closer to home next season, one way or another.
WPIAL football realignment: Small tweaks or major overhaul? Schools will decide
January 8, 2020
The WPIAL revealed two football realignments options Wednesday night, one that only tweaks the current format and another that would change the landscape drastically.
Ethan Morton’s triple-double leads Butler past rival Pine-Richland in OT
Ethan Morton’s 3-point shot wasn’t falling and Pine-Richland’s defense didn’t allow many layups, so Butler’s star prevailed instead with free throws.
Butler high jumper ranks 2nd nationally after TSTCA indoor opener
January 5, 2020
Butler high jumper Sami Taoufik started his TSTCA indoor track season Saturday with an early-season victory that has him ranked second nationally.
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 5, 2020
January 4, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 5, 2020
WPIAL rankings
2010s TribLive HSSN All-Decade Football Team: Coaches
The WPIAL awarded 48 football titles during the past decade and most of them went to the same 10 coaches.
2010s TribLive HSSN All-Decade Football Team: Defense
January 3, 2020
When the NFL playoffs arrive this weekend, three WPIAL defensive stars from the past decade will be in uniform, a testament to the football talent Western Pennsylvania produces.
Struggling Butler football program leaving WPIAL for independent schedule
Worried that years of losing will force its program to someday fold, Butler decided it won’t play WPIAL football next season and instead will put together an independent schedule.
2010s TribLive HSSN All-Decade Football Team: Offense
January 2, 2020
The 2010s were a record-setting decade for WPIAL football teams, with career, single-season and single-game record books rewritten more than once.
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 29, 2019
December 28, 2019
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 29, 2019
WPIAL rankings
Class 2A all-state football: Avonworth’s Duke Johncour named Coach of the Year
Fresh off their team’s first PIAA championship appearance, two Avonworth players earned all-state honors Saturday and Duke Johncour was named Pennsylvania’s Coach of the Year in Class 2A.
Class 4A all-state football: 4 Thomas Jefferson players selected, Cherpak voted top coach
Thomas Jefferson’s quarterback, top running back, wide receiver and lineman all earned all-state honors Saturday, statewide recognition for winning WPIAL and PIAA titles with an undefeated 16-0 record.
Class 6A all-state football: Central Catholic leads WPIAL with 4 players
Central Catholic senior Jonathan Opalko twice made game-winning field goals in the playoffs and had a school-record 54-yarder in the regular season, kicks that earned him all-state honors Saturday.
Class A all-state football: West Greene’s Ben Jackson named Pa. Player of the Year
December 27, 2019
West Greene’s Ben Jackson became the first player in WPIAL history to rush for 3,000 yards in a single season, an achievement that earned him accolades this fall.
Class 3A all-state football: Central Valley leads WPIAL teams with 4 honorees
WPIAL champion Central Valley, which returned to the PIAA finals for the first time in five years, was rewarded Friday with four all-state selections.
Class 5A all-state football: Peters Township, Gateway, Moon claim multiple spots
WPIAL finalists Gateway and Peters Township combined Friday to fill five spots on the Class 5A all-state team led by Gators junior Derrick Davis, who was picked for the second consecutive year.
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 22, 2019
December 21, 2019
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 22, 2019
WPIAL rankings
Western Pa. football recruits make official commitments during early signing period
December 18, 2019
The early signing period for Division I football recruits arrived Wednesday and high school seniors across Western Pennsylvania took to social media to reveal their official commitments.
Transfers will force Aliquippa football to Class 4A, pending appeal to PIAA
December 17, 2019
Aliquippa ranks among the smallest football schools in the WPIAL, with only four more boys than Jeannette and nine fewer than Shenango.
WPIAL denies Butler request to join District 10 in football
Mired in a 20-game losing streak, Butler’s football team asked to leave the WPIAL and join District 10, but that request was denied by the WPIAL board Monday.
Missouri wrestling champion Wyatt Henson eligible for WPIAL, PIAA tournaments
December 16, 2019
Waynesburg transfer Wyatt Henson, a Missouri state wrestling champion, was ruled eligible Monday for the WPIAL and PIAA tournaments this winter.
WPIAL executive director Tim O’Malley retiring, board promotes Amy Scheuneman
The WPIAL will have a change in leadership this summer.
North Allegheny’s Sam Sheridan commits to Patriot League football
North Allegheny’s Sam Sheridan, an all-conference defensive end, has committed to Lehigh.
Seton LaSalle’s Max Schipani follows high school connections to Albany
December 15, 2019
Seton LaSalle’s Max Schipani will play college football for a coach who knows his high school very well.
Gateway’s Derrick Davis named TribLive HSSN Football Player of the Year
With nearly 30 college scholarship offers, Gateway’s Derrick Davis admits he’s had to look back through his Twitter timeline just to remember them all.
Undefeated state champions, record-setting rusher among Trib 25 football all-stars
December 14, 2019
The WPIAL crowned six more champions this season, each with a unique story to tell. There was an undefeated state champion who celebrated win No. 16 in Hershey and a running back from Greene County who became the first to 3,000 yards.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings for week of Dec. 15, 2019
Boys
WPIAL girls basketball rankings for Week of Dec. 15, 2019
Class 6A
PCN will re-air Pine-Richland’s snowy 2003 PIAA football final
December 12, 2019
The images are among the most iconic in PIAA football championship history.
WPIAL survey results: Schools favor 6 playoff brackets, mixed on realignment approach
The WPIAL’s football survey produced mixed results on some topics, but a clear majority of schools want to keep six separate playoff brackets.
PIAA could force Aliquippa football to Class 4A under competitive-balance rule
December 11, 2019
Add Aliquippa to the list of football teams that might be forced into a higher classification next season.
Influential WPIAL administrator Charles ‘Ace’ Heberling dies
December 9, 2019
Charles “Ace” Heberling, who directed the WPIAL for more than two decades and is credited with making the league what it is today, died Monday. He was 94.
Peters Township’s Donovan McMillon adds 2 offers as NCAA coaches enter contact period
High school football players are in the midst of a two-week contact period on the NCAA recruiting calendar, a 14-day span that’s kept WPIAL juniors busy.
Gateway sophomore Patrick Body adds first Division I football offer
Gateway sophomore Patrick Body made two of the Gators’ most important catches in the playoffs and was rewarded this week with his first Division I college offer.
WPIAL leading receiver David Pantelis announces offer from Duquesne
December 8, 2019
As the WPIAL’s leading receiver, Upper St. Clair’s David Pantelis earned the attention of WPIAL defensive coordinators all across Class 5A.
Wyoming Area’s late rally stuns Central Valley in PIAA championship
December 7, 2019
HERSHEY — Momentum might be a myth to some, but Central Valley believes in it wholeheartedly.
Going up? PIAA could force Southern Columbia, others into higher football classification
Southern Columbia has no equal in Class 2A football, a lesson Avonworth learned Friday.
Southern Columbia routs Avonworth in record-setting PIAA championship
December 6, 2019
HERSHEY — Avonworth’s Park Penrod and Trevor Faulkner connected for an electric 43-yard touchdown pass on the opening possession Friday, and for more than 4 minutes, the Antelopes led the state championship.
Thomas Jefferson dominates Dallas, celebrates 4th PIAA title
December 5, 2019
HERSHEY — Thomas Jefferson’s Bill Cherpak had coached 24 seasons, won seven WPIAL titles and celebrated three state championships before this year.
Avonworth will ‘relish’ underdog role against 9-time PIAA champion Southern Columbia
Avonworth coach Duke Johncour acknowledges the apparent mismatch his football team is walking into Friday when the Antelopes make their first state championship appearance.
Thomas Jefferson sees ‘mirror image’ in state championship opponent Dallas
December 4, 2019
Instead of heading home after last week’s semifinal win, Thomas Jefferson coach Bill Cherpak and a few assistants drove two hours from Hollidaysburg to Danville to watch Dallas win the other state semifinal.
Ambridge basketball coach Mark Jula retires week before season opener
December 2, 2019
Ambridge boys basketball coach Mark Jula started to question his passion for the job, so he retired a week before the season opener.
Central Catholic loses in overtime to nationally ranked St. Joseph’s Prep
November 30, 2019
ALTOONA — Nationally ranked St. Joseph’s Prep needed overtime Saturday to defeat Central Catholic, 31-24, but the WPIAL champion didn’t leave Mansion Park Stadium satisfied with just coming close.
Fast start leads Thomas Jefferson to PIAA semifinal victory over Lampeter-Strasburg
November 29, 2019
HOLLIDAYSBURG — After an 11-year wait, Thomas Jefferson is finally headed back to Hershey, but there wasn’t much suspense in the victory that made it happen.
Central Catholic ‘not awestruck’ by nationally ranked St. Joseph’s Prep
National rankings list St. Joseph’s Prep as one of the best high school football teams not only in Pennsylvania but in the entire country.
Gateway star Derrick Davis ‘game-time decision’ as Gators draw rematch with Archbishop Wood
November 27, 2019
Archbishop Wood had a four-star recruit two years ago when the Philadelphia Catholic League power walloped Gateway in a lopsided state championship game.
Thomas Jefferson, Belle Vernon lead Big Eight all-conference with 8 players each
Conference champion Thomas Jefferson had eight players earn first-team all-conference honors in the Big Eight, and quarterback Shane Stump was named Offensive Player of the Year in a vote of coaches.
Central Valley tops Tri-County West with 11 all-conference selections
Beaver Falls running back Josh Hough and Keystone Oaks quarterback Logan Schrubb shared Offensive MVP honors in the Tri-County West in a vote of conference coaches.
Burgettstown tops Three Rivers all-conference with 9 on 1st team
Burgettstown completed its second consecutive undefeated regular season and was rewarded by Three Rivers coaches with nine players on the all-conference first team.
Clairton’s Brendan Parsons, Jeannette’s Justin Cramer lead Eastern all-conference team
Clairton and Jeannette, the top two teams in the Eastern, had 19 players combined earn first-team all-conference honors in a vote of coaches.
West Greene record-setter Ben Jackson leads Tri-County South all-conference
West Greene running back Ben Jackson, who became the first WPIAL rusher to top 3,000 yards in a season, was among the players recognized by coaches in the Class A Tri-County South.
Undefeated Avonworth earns 14 spots on all-conference 1st team in Allegheny
Undefeated conference champion Avonworth dominated the all-conference voting this season by claiming 14 of the available 28 first-team spots.
Cornell, Laurel sweep individual awards on Big 7 all-conference team
Cornell earned a share of the Big Seven title and a home playoff game for only the second time in school history, accomplishments that shaped all-conference voting.
WPIAL bans West Mifflin from 2020 football playoffs for using ineligible player
November 25, 2019
The West Mifflin football team used an ineligible player all season, so the Titans are banned from the postseason next year, the WPIAL decided Monday.
Gateway wins field-position battle with Peters Township for 7th WPIAL title
November 23, 2019
Gateway didn’t score a point in the final 20 minutes Saturday night, but ultimately they didn’t need any.
Gateway, Peters Township big-play offenses will test 5A’s stingiest defenses
Gateway’s Derrick Davis can take a screen pass to the end zone at any time, and Peters Township’s Josh Casilli is just as dangerous with the football in his hands.
Thomas Jefferson finally clears Cathedral Prep hurdle
November 22, 2019
The referee held his hands only a few inches apart.
WPIAL Class 5A football final primer: Gateway vs. Peters Township
WPIAL Class 5A championship
WPIAL survey asks: Should every football team make the playoffs?
Would you be interested in every WPIAL football team making the playoffs?
Central Catholic keeps focus on State College with possible St. Joseph’s matchup looming
November 21, 2019
Central Catholic could have a showdown with defending state champion St. Joseph’s Prep on the horizon, an East vs. West clash with the nationally ranked Philadelphia power.
Ineligible Avonworth football player drops lawsuit against WPIAL, PIAA
Attorneys for ineligible Avonworth football player Kyros Thorpe withdrew his lawsuit against the WPIAL and PIAA on Thursday, ending his legal battle to play in the WPIAL football championship.
Wyatt Henson returns to Waynesburg after winning Missouri state wrestling title
Missouri state wrestling champion Wyatt Henson has transferred back to Waynesburg, but the junior isn’t eligible for the WPIAL or PIAA postseason tournaments this winter.
Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe seeks court injunction to play in WPIAL Class 2A football final
November 20, 2019
Turned away by both the WPIAL and PIAA, Avonworth senior Kyros Thorpe is taking his eligibility battle to court.
Basketball star Isiah Warfield remains ineligible for postseason after WPIAL denies waiver
November 18, 2019
WPIAL basketball star Isiah Warfield remains ineligible to play in the playoffs this winter.
West Mifflin possibly used ineligible football player all season, WPIAL says
The WPIAL wants to hear from West Mifflin’s football coach and school administrators to determine whether the Titans used an ineligible football player all season.
WPIAL board unanimously approves Ligonier Valley request to join District 7
The WPIAL board voted unanimously Monday to accept Ligonier Valley as a member.
Opalko’s late field goal lifts Central Catholic past Pine-Richland in WPIAL Class 6A final
November 16, 2019
This was a kick that might make NFL kickers nervous.
Aliquippa quarterback plays in WPIAL championship hours after mother’s death
On the eve of the WPIAL championships, Aliquippa football coach Mike Warfield received a desperate text message from his quarterback.
WPIAL Class 6A football finals primer: Central Catholic vs. Pine-Richland
WPIAL Class 6A championship
Gateway’s defense uses 4th-down stands to edge McKeesport in WPIAL semifinals
McKeesport’s Devari Robinson sprinted forward on fourth-and-4, colliding with Gateway linebacker Jay Johnson, who dragged him to the Offutt Field turf.
5 things to watch in Week 12 of high school football: TJ’s Cherpak draws Belichick comparisons
November 15, 2019
Thomas Jefferson coach Bill Cherpak chuckles at the comparison, but maybe it’s too not farfetched?
WPIAL Class 4A football finals primer: Thomas Jefferson vs. Belle Vernon
WPIAL Class 4A championship
WPIAL championship rematch with fearsome Central Catholic line awaits Pine-Richland
One lineman is the talented nephew of an NFL superstar. One is 6-foot-5 and committed to North Carolina. The two others are gigantic twin brothers with more than 20 scholarship offers.
Familiar foes Belle Vernon, Thomas Jefferson to meet for WPIAL Class 4A title
November 13, 2019
Belle Vernon knocked loudly on the WPIAL championship door two years in a row without an answer, each time losing in the semifinals.
PIAA postpones Tuesday’s state soccer semifinals at Hampton, Slippery Rock
November 12, 2019
Snow-covered fields forced the PIAA to postpone Tuesday’s soccer semifinals at Hampton and Slippery Rock.
Midwestern: New Brighton’s Francona, Western Beaver’s Altenbaugh lead all-conference team
November 11, 2019
New Brighton receiver Jake Francona and Western Beaver linebacker Zach Altenbaugh earned MVP honors this season in the Midwestern Athletic Conference.
Northern: Penn Hills lands 9 players, coach on 1st-team, all-conference list
Penn Hills had nine players voted first-team all-conference by coaches including eight on the defensive side of the football.
Big East: 9 from Penn-Trafford voted 1st-team all-conference, Ruane top coach
bPenn-Trafford went undefeated in the regular season and dominated the Big East once again Monday in the all-conference voting.
Allegheny 8: Peters Township leads all-conference voting with 8 on 1st team
Moon went from one conference win to a share of the Allegheny Eight title, a turnaround that earned Ryan Linn conference coach of the year honors.
Central Catholic leads 6A all-conference team; Canon-Mac’s Evans top coach
Central Catholic, North Allegheny and Pine-Richland finished tied as tri-champions in WPIAL Class 6A, but the Vikings ran away with the all-conference vote.
Mt. Lebanon’s Patrick Anderson leads PTFCA all-state cross country team
November 10, 2019
Two-time state cross country champion Patrick Anderson was named as the sport’s male athlete of the year by the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.
Washington leads all-conference selections in Class 2A Century
Washington quarterback Zack Swartz, lineman Zakhi Marshall and coach Mike Bosnic won individual awards in the Class 2A Century.
Five things we learned in high school football Week 11
November 9, 2019
With another celebration at Heinz Field, Central Catholic or Pine-Richland can call itself the team of the decade in the WPIAL’s largest classification.
Peters Township wins rematch with Moon in WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal
November 8, 2019
When Peters Township lost to Moon in the regular season, Josh Casilli’s stat line read: one catch, six yards.
Allegheny 8 co-champions Moon, Peters Township rematch in WPIAL quarterfinals
The WPIAL football playoffs often bring together unfamiliar teams, so their coaches spend hours studying one another on film.
After 2 winless seasons, Butler football might leave WPIAL for independent schedule
November 7, 2019
Mired in a 20-game losing streak, Butler’s football team might leave the WPIAL for an independent schedule next season.
5 things to watch in Week 11 of high school football: North Allegheny, Mt. Lebanon looking to flip script
How much can change in 14 days?
PIAA football realignment: What classification will teams call home in 2020, 2021?
PIAA football teams learned Thursday which classification they’ll call home next season.
Former WPIAL basketball star Donovan ‘Puff’ Johnson commits to North Carolina
November 5, 2019
Former WPIAL basketball star Donovan “Puff” Johnson committed Tuesday night to North Carolina, choosing a school where older brother Cameron played.
WPIAL announces football playoff sites for Week 11: Class 5A rematch at West A
November 4, 2019
Peters Township and Moon, co-champions in the Allegheny Eight, will play for the second time in six weeks when they meet Friday night in a WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal at West Allegheny.
Pine-Richland lineman Miguel Jackson adds 3rd Division I offer
November 3, 2019
Pine-Richland’s Miguel Jackson, one of the WPIAL’s top pass rushers, added his third Division I offer this week.
2 WPIAL seniors receive 1st Division I offers from Rhode Island
Two WPIAL football players received their first Division I offers this week from the same FCS school.
5 things we learned in Week 10: McGuffey, West Greene celebrate 1st WPIAL playoff win in decades
November 2, 2019
McGuffey waited 25 years for Friday night’s celebration. West Greene waited 26. New Brighton waited 18.
QB Ethan Dahlem exits, but fast start leads Upper St. Clair past North Hills
November 1, 2019
Like a scene from scary movie, Upper St. Clair quarterback Ethan Dahlem’s head and helmet were twisted around in the wrong direction as he crossed the goal line.
Upper St. Clair out to deny North Hills its 1st playoff win since 2010
North Hills and Upper St. Clair haven’t played one another in nearly a decade, but a first-round matchup has stirred some nostalgia.
Home-field advantage weighs heavy in WPIAL playoffs
October 31, 2019
North Hills’ Rowdie Rooters, the team’s famed hilltop cheering section, hasn’t celebrated a home playoff game at Martorelli Stadium in almost a decade.
2nd WPIAL football playoff game moved to artificial turf
Friday’s forecast predicts drier weather, but Thursday’s rain was enough to force two WPIAL football playoff games to be moved off grass.
PIAA overturns WPIAL, makes Clairton’s Wayne Wade III eligible for football playoffs
Clairton senior Wayne Wade III can participate in the football playoffs, the PIAA decided Thursday, overturning a WPIAL decision on the eve of the postseason.
Weather forecast forces Cornell to move football playoff game to West Allegheny
October 30, 2019
The Cornell football team was hoping to play its first home playoff game since 1983, but a rainy forecast has changed those plans.
Choosing Washington or Avonworth for No. 1 seed among WPIAL’s toughest bracket picks
October 28, 2019
Choosing the No. 1 seeds was maybe easier than usual for the WPIAL football committee with one exception: Class 2A.
Breaking down the 2019 WPIAL football playoffs
Class 6A
5 things we learned in Week 9: Cornell earns 1st home playoff game since 1983
October 26, 2019
Many at Cornell couldn’t remember the football team ever hosting a playoff game, coach Ed Dawson said, but that’s understandable after more than three decades.
WPIAL football rankings through Week 9
WPIAL Football
Pine-Richland defeats rival North Allegheny, creates 3-way tie for conference title
October 25, 2019
Pine-Richland quarterback Cole Spencer scanned across North Allegheny’s defense, spotted a safety out of position and turned that mistake into a 79-yard touchdown pass.
North Allegheny, Pine-Richland chasing 1st-round byes along with conference title
North Allegheny coach Art Walker hasn’t studied playoff scenarios or counted tiebreaker points ahead of Friday’s regular-season finale at Pine-Richland.
5 things to watch in Week 9: Aliquippa, Central Valley battle for conference title
October 24, 2019
Only one team has defeated Aliquippa in the past two seasons combined: Central Valley in Week 9 last year.
Karen Arnold named athletic director for Pittsburgh City League
Karen Arnold was named athletic director for Pittsburgh Public Schools on Thursday, making her the first woman to hold that position.
WPIAL finds evidence ‘credible,’ but won’t punish Connellsville, Allderdice for slurs
October 22, 2019
The WPIAL found the evidence “credible,” but Connellsville and Allderdice won’t be punished for the racial and anti-gay slurs allegedly exchanged in a boys high school soccer match last month.
Clairton’s Wayne Wade III among 2 denied postseason eligibility by WPIAL
The WPIAL denied an appeal from Clairton transfer Wayne Wade III on Monday, leaving the senior ineligible for the upcoming football playoffs.
WPIAL investigates slurs in 2-hour hearing with Allderdice, Connellsville; decision Tuesday
October 21, 2019
The WPIAL board of directors, investigating allegations of racial and anti-gay slurs, heard more than two hours of testimony Monday night from boys soccer players, coaches and administrators representing Allderdice and Connellsville.
No vote yet, but WPIAL open to admitting Ligonier Valley
The WPIAL administration supports Ligonier Valley switching districts, if the school is released from PIAA District 6.
Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington adds Robert Morris offer
October 20, 2019
Quaker Valley basketball standout Corinne Washington received a Robert Morris offer Saturday, making her the second WPIAL junior this month to add a Colonials scholarship.
Peters Township’s Donovan McMillon announces first Division I football offer
Peters Township’s Donovan McMillon made one of his team’s biggest plays Friday night and then added his first Division I offer a day later.
Five things we learned in Week 8: Special moment for Neshannock’s Jeremy Nativio
October 19, 2019
Around the WPIAL, Neshannock senior Jeremy Nativio’s 34-yard touchdown run became a feel-good internet sensation.
WPIAL football rankings through Week 8
WPIAL Football
Special teams shine as Peters Township defeats Bethel Park in 1st-place clash
Peters Township’s longest touchdown drive covered just 37 yards Friday night, rather short for one of the WPIAL’s top offenses.
Bethel Park, Peters Township to break 1st-place tie in unpredictable Allegheny 8
October 18, 2019
Nobody’s perfect in the Allegheny Eight, but that’s because the conference is the deepest in the WPIAL this season.
McGuffey installing two-toned gray turf at football stadium
October 17, 2019
McGuffey’s football field is going gray.
5 things to watch in Week 8 of the high school football season
For many teams, there’s still hope.
Upper St. Clair swimming star Josh Matheny commits to Indiana
October 16, 2019
The Indiana Hoosiers are probably known best for an iconic basketball program once coached by Bob Knight, but the school also has a swim team that celebrates championships.
2 top WPIAL juniors announce Michigan State football offers
Michigan State has recruited its share of WPIAL football players, a list that recently included Montae Nicholson of Gateway and Demetrious Cox of Jeannette.
Former Pine-Richland linebacker Tyler King commits to Stony Brook
October 14, 2019
Former Pine-Richland standout Tyler King, the leading tackler for two WPIAL titles and a state championship, announced Sunday his commitment to Stony Brook.
Sto-Rox’s Eric Wilson becomes 9th WPIAL passer with 7,000 career yards
October 13, 2019
Sto-Rox’s Eric Wilson topped 7,000 career passing yards on Friday night, becoming only the ninth quarterback in WPIAL history to reach the milestone.
Former Pine-Richland, West A standout Kenny White adds Robert Morris offer
Former Pine-Richland and West Allegheny standout Kenny White, now a junior college sophomore, added his third Division I offer this week from Robert Morris.
Woodland Hills junior Peyton Pinkney adds Robert Morris offer
Woodland Hills junior Peyton Pinkney has two hometown basketball offers now that Robert Morris has joined her scholarship list.
5 takeaways from Week 7: Keystone Oaks QB tops 500 total yards in extraordinary effort
Keystone Oaks coach Greg Perry wasn’t too surprised, but quarterback Logan Shrubb didn’t seem tired when he arrived Saturday morning to lift weights.
WPIAL sets new hearing date for Connellsville, Allderdice to address slur accusations
The WPIAL hearing for Connellsville and Allderdice to address accusations of racial and anti-gay slurs was rescheduled for Oct. 21.
No ‘doormat’: Moon tied for 1st after defeating Upper St. Clair
October 11, 2019
Doormats? Hardly.
Moon faces another top wideout in Allegheny 8 clash with Upper St. Clair
October 10, 2019
For the second week in a row, Moon faces a big-play offense with one of the WPIAL’s top wide receivers.
5 things to watch in Week 7 of the high school football season
One conference loss is manageable, but two might doom someone’s season in WPIAL Class A.
Scheduling conflict forces WPIAL to move football championship from Robert Morris
October 8, 2019
A scheduling conflict at Robert Morris has forced the WPIAL to move its Class 2A football championship to Norwin.
5 takeaways from Week 6: Southmoreland snaps cold spell
October 5, 2019
Southmoreland coach Dave Keefer saw no reason to hide the team’s 40-year playoff drought from his players.
WPIAL football rankings through Week 6
WPIAL Football
Thomas Jefferson slows Central Valley’s big-play offense in nonconference clash
October 4, 2019
Central Valley has the type of athlete-heavy spread offense that’s caused Thomas Jefferson trouble in recent years.
PIAA tightens competitive balance formula for football, basketball transfers
Adding one transfer could force a basketball team into a higher PIAA classification.
PIAA might ease co-op rules for small schools struggling to fill rosters
October 3, 2019
With many small districts struggling to fill rosters, the PIAA might make it easier for two schools to form a combined sports team.
5 things to watch in Week 6 of the high school football season
Thomas Jefferson coach Bill Cherpak likes this week’s matchup but not necessarily the timing.
Central Valley, Thomas Jefferson rekindle rivalry from their Class AAA days
It wasn’t long ago that Thomas Jefferson and Central Valley were linked in a budding rivalry.
Gateway junior Derrick Davis adds another Top 25 football offer
Derrick Davis’ long list of scholarship offers is starting to resemble the Top 25 polls.
PIAA cross county champion Patrick Anderson commits to North Carolina
Mt. Lebanon senior Patrick Anderson, the defending state cross country champion, committed to North Carolina.
Baseball coach Steve Bucci leaves South Park for alma mater Baldwin
October 2, 2019
Baseball coach Steve Bucci, who owns both WPIAL and state titles, is leaving South Park for Baldwin, his alma mater.
Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe among 3 denied postseason eligibility by PIAA
Avonworth football standout Kyros Thorpe was among three transfers left ineligible for the postseason after the PIAA upheld earlier WPIAL decisions Wednesday.
Chartiers Valley sophomore Perri Page adds Duquesne offer
September 30, 2019
Chartiers Valley sophomore Perri Page added a Duquesne basketball offer Monday, making her the third returning player from last year’s state championship lineup with Division I options.
PCN will re-air Darrelle Revis’ 5-touchdown performance in PIAA championship
Sixteen years later, high school football fans still marvel over Darrelle Revis’ performance in the 2003 state championship.
Central Catholic quarterback Dom Pieto commits to play Division I baseball
September 29, 2019
A day after quarterbacking Central Catholic’s football team to a win over then-No. 1 Pine-Richland, Dom Pieto announced his college commitment.
Gateway basketball standout Lexi Jackson commits to Kent State
All-section center Lexi Jackson, who averaged a double-double for Gateway’s girls basketball team, committed Saturday to Kent State.
5 takeaways from Week 5: WPIAL working overtime
September 28, 2019
Not many WPIAL football teams have worked overtime this season, but regulation wasn’t enough for three games Friday night.
WPIAL football rankings through Week 5
WPIAL Football
Dramatic win holds special meaning for Ringgold football, Rosensteel family
Ringgold’s student section rushed onto the field as time expired Friday night, overcome with excitement when a last-second field goal by Clayton Rosensteel gave the football team its first win in two years.
No. 3 Central Catholic leans on talented line, Eddy Tillman to defeat No. 1 Pine-Richland
September 27, 2019
A’meer Allen noticed a troubling trend in recent years.
Will Pine-Richland vs. Central Catholic predict WPIAL champion once again?
September 26, 2019
Central Catholic and Pine-Richland have a shared history that few recent rivalries can match.
5 things to watch in Week 5 of high school football
Central Valley traveled 13 miles to play its first conference road game this season and only nine miles for its second, matchups with Beaver County rivals Blackhawk and Beaver Falls.
WPIAL postpones hearing for Allderdice, Connellsville boys soccer teams
September 23, 2019
A WPIAL hearing scheduled Wednesday for the Allderdice and Connellsville boys soccer teams has been postponed.
Shady Side Academy will forfeit football game against Apollo-Ridge
Citing a lack of healthy players, Shady Side Academy notified Apollo-Ridge on Monday that it will forfeit this week’s football game.
Burgettstown lineman Riley Kemper commits to Robert Morris
September 22, 2019
Burgettstown lineman Riley Kemper, a reigning WPIAL wrestling champion, committed Sunday to play football at Robert Morris.
5 takeaways from Week 4: Northern Conference continues to roil
September 21, 2019
Is there a WPIAL conference more volatile than the Northern?
WPIAL football rankings through Week 4
WPIAL Football
North Allegheny’s Percise Colon draws big comparisons after victory over Mt. Lebanon
September 20, 2019
Art Walker has a small-but-sensational running back who’s undersized and maybe underestimated, but one that could lead the team to a championship.
WPIAL sets hearing date for Connellsville, Allderdice to address racial, anti-gay slurs
Representatives from Connellsville and Allderdice will meet next week to address allegations that the schools’ boys soccer teams used racial and anti-gay slurs.
Mt. Lebanon isn’t ‘well-oiled machine,’ but will battle North Allegheny for 1st place
September 19, 2019
Bob Palko wants to build Mt. Lebanon into the “well-oiled machine” that his West Allegheny program was, but first, all of the parts have to be assembled correctly.
5 things to watch in Week 4 of high school football
Clairton will try to do something that Mohawk, Rochester, Bishop Canevin and California couldn’t.
Injuries force Bishop Canevin to forfeit football game against OLSH
Citing a lack of healthy players, Bishop Canevin announced that it will forfeit this week’s football game against Our Lady of the Sacred Heart.
WPIAL wants 2 football coaches suspended for violating heat acclimatization rules
September 17, 2019
The WPIAL wants two football coaches suspended for a scrimmage next season for violating preseason heat acclimatization rules.
Seton LaSalle football player among 2 ruled eligible after WPIAL hearings
The WPIAL ruled Seton LaSalle transfer Tyler Buzalka eligible for football season following a hearing Monday in Green Tree.
WPIAL calls in Connellsville, Allderdice after more racial slur allegations
September 16, 2019
The WPIAL is calling in Connellsville administrators for the second time in two years to face allegations that the school’s boys soccer team targeted an opponent with racial slurs.
North Allegheny freshman Jasmine Timmerson adds Robert Morris offer
September 15, 2019
A couple of weeks after adding a Michigan State basketball offer, North Allegheny freshman Jasmine Timmerson received one from a school much closer to home.
Rochester sophomore Corynne Hauser adds 3rd Division I basketball offer
Rochester sophomore Corynne Hauser, who helped the Rams win a WPIAL girls basketball title last winter, received her third Division I offer this week.
Brian Eyerman, Alex Papson among North Allegheny hall of fame class
Football standouts Brian Eyerman and Alex Papson are among 11 former North Allegheny athletes who’ll be inducted next month into the school’s sports hall of fame.
5 takeaways from Week 3: Quarterback’s 485 yards among all-time WPIAL best
September 14, 2019
Gaudy statistics by WPIAL quarterbacks aren’t unusual anymore, but occasionally there’s a number that stands out among the rest.
WPIAL football rankings through Week 3
WPIAL Football
Drastic changes in enrollment factor into high school football participation decline
When McKeesport coach Matt Miller was a senior in 1991, the Tigers had around 85 names on the football roster. This year, his team has 47.
No. 4 Penn Hills forces 6 turnovers in 14-7 victory over Mars
September 13, 2019
The halftime adjustment for Penn Hills’ defensive line seemed almost counter-intuitive: Try not to rush into the backfield too quickly.
5 things to watch in Week 3 of high school football: Sept. 13-14
September 12, 2019
If Avonworth quarterback Park Penrod throws a touchdown or scrambles for a first down, his name won’t echo through the stadium Friday night.
Spotting ‘fakes’ crucial as Penn Hills prepares for Mars’ misdirection
Mars coach Scott Heinauer took time during film study to praise a run by Nick Spotti that gained exactly zero yards.
Central Catholic lineman Thomas Hartnett commits to Dartmouth
September 11, 2019
The Ivy League added another WPIAL lineman Wednesday when Central Catholic’s Thomas Hartnett committed to Dartmouth.
Jeannette, Avella consider rescheduling football game but agree to play Friday night
September 10, 2019
Jeannette and Avella school administrators discussed moving this week’s football game to a different date or time, but ultimately agreed to play the game as scheduled.
5 takeaways from Week 2 of high school football action
September 7, 2019
Less than a week after being shot in the leg and feet, West Mifflin quarterback Jaylen Dukes walked back onto a football field with crutches Friday night.
WPIAL football rankings through Week 2
WPIAL football rankings
South Fayette’s Naman Alemada throws 5 touchdowns in win over New Castle
September 6, 2019
South Fayette’s Naman Alemada tossed five touchdown passes in Friday night’s 37-21 victory, but those throws weren’t the only ones that left New Castle coach Joe Cowart impressed.
Washington lineman Chase Mitchell commits to FBS newcomer Liberty
The WPIAL added another Division I lineman to the 2020 recruiting class Thursday when Washington’s Chase Mitchell committed to Liberty.
New Castle wants to stop South Fayette’s 3-year undefeated run in Northwest 8
September 5, 2019
The name changed from the Northwest Nine to the Northwest Eight, but whatever the Class 4A conference was called, South Fayette has owned it.
Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe among 3 denied postseason eligibility by WPIAL
Avonworth transfer Kyros Thorpe can complete the regular season but the football standout remains ineligible for the playoffs.
WPIAL rules North Catholic soccer transfer Jayden Sharpless eligible
A WPIAL hearing panel overturned an earlier decision and ruled North Catholic soccer star Jayden Sharpless eligible Thursday by a narrow vote.
5 things to watch in Week 2 of high school football
In more than a century of WPIAL football, only three schools have reached 700 all-time victories: New Castle, Jeannette and Aliquippa.
Avonworth football standout Kyros Thorpe seeks postseason eligibility
September 2, 2019
Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe has made an immediate impact since transferring from Central Catholic, but it’s unknown whether he’ll be eligible for the football playoffs.
WPIAL schedules eligibility hearing for soccer star Jayden Sharpless
North Catholic transfer Jayden Sharpless, the top WPIAL girls soccer player last season, will learn this week whether she can play this fall.
Central Catholic junior Elliot Donald reveals 8 favorite scholarship offers
September 1, 2019
Central Catholic junior Elliot Donald posted a favorites list this week that included all three area colleges and some of the top programs nationally.
North Allegheny freshman adds Michigan State basketball offer
Jasmine Timmerson won’t make her high school basketball debut for a few more months, but the North Allegheny freshman already has a Big 10 scholarship offer.
Gateway junior Derrick Davis adds another SEC football offer
Gateway’s Derrick Davis might soon be able to choose any college in the country.
5 takeaways from Week 1 of high school football action
August 31, 2019
Carlynton accomplished something Friday the program hadn’t done in 14 years.
WPIAL football rankings through Week 1
Class 6A
Central Catholic scores last-minute touchdown, stops Seneca Valley in wild finish
August 30, 2019
Central Catholic scored with 28 seconds left and then its defense made a touchdown-saving tackle as time expired Friday night, a wild finish to a 10-7 victory at Seneca Valley.
Randy Rovesti retires as Gateway athletic director
Randy Rovesti thought he’d be Gateway’s interim athletic director for maybe two or three months, just long enough for the district to find someone else.
5 things to watch in Week 1 high school football
August 29, 2019
Aliquippa’s Mike Warfield would like to see old Aschman Stadium renovated, but the second-year coach started with the field house that holds the team’s lockers and weight room.
Division I linemen clash as No. 2 Central Catholic visits No. 4 Seneca Valley
Ron Butschle apologized for using what might sound to some like an old coaching cliché.
5 takeaways from Week Zero of high school football action
Two hundred yards is a good night for any WPIAL passer, but nowadays that’s not enough for some quarterbacks.
Pine-Richland uses fast start to defeat Penn Hills in clash of champions
August 23, 2019
Pine-Richland didn’t ease into this new football season.
McGuffey-Ambridge Week Zero football game postponed in 11th hour
Friday night’s football game between Ambridge and McGuffey was postponed because no game officials were hired to work the game, said McGuffey athletic director Ed Dalton.
WPIAL soccer star Jayden Sharpless ruled ineligible after transferring
Jayden Sharpless, one of the WPIAL’s top girls soccer players, was ruled ineligible to play this fall.
WPIAL rules 2 transfers eligible for football, delays decision on another
August 22, 2019
The WPIAL ruled Woodland Hills transfer E’Shawn Carter eligible Thursday, clearing the junior to play football and basketball this school year for the Wolverines.
5 things to watch in high school football for Week Zero
Scrimmage or schedule a game?
WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
The South Hills has some new faces this fall.
Aliquippa returns ‘good nucleus’ from WPIAL, PIAA championship lineup
If they all can accept their invitations, Aliquippa football greats Ty Law, Darrelle Revis, Sean Gilbert and Mike Ditka will return home for a Week 1 ceremony.
Woodland Hills transfer Eshawn Carter among 3 WPIAL hearings scheduled for Thursday
Woodland Hills transfer Eshawn Carter and two incoming freshmen at Aliquippa will have their football eligibility decided Thursday during hearing at the WPIAL office in Green Tree.
WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the kickers
August 21, 2019
Sharing your field with a good soccer team can sometimes be a boost for football programs across the WPIAL.
Even without LeDonne in attendance, Penn Hills, Pine-Richland excited for clash of champions
Jon LeDonne won’t take a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains or listen to some Smokey Robinson on his free Friday night.
WPIAL position by position breakdown: Scouting the safeties
August 20, 2019
Versatile safeties are crucial in today’s WPIAL.
Moon basketball star Donovan Johnson joining brother Cameron in Arizona
August 19, 2019
Moon basketball star Donovan “Puff” Johnson is joining older brother Cameron in Arizona.
WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the cornerbacks
There’s no major college recruit on this list like last year when Aliquippa’s M.J. Devonshire, North Allegheny’s Joey Porter Jr. and Penn Hills’ Daequan Hardy topped the cornerback rankings.
Coach Rod Steele makes West Mifflin roster battle for jobs in 1st season
A few days of heat acclimation and a week of camp wasn’t enough time for Rod Steele to pick starters.
WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the linebackers
August 18, 2019
The top linebackers in the WPIAL and City League always include some of the area’s best all-around athletes.
WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the defensive linemen
August 17, 2019
Some years it’s at cornerback. Sometimes it’s the linebackers.
WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the offensive linemen
August 16, 2019
The offensive line is always strong spot for the WPIAL, and it is among the deepest positions again this season.
Bethel Park might be going to no-huddle offense, but toughness remains
There won’t be a fullback in the backfield, the tight end is optional and running backs might play wide receiver, but Bethel Park’s offense isn’t completely new.
Upper St. Clair, Junko start with ‘blank slate’
Upper St. Clair returns only three players who started last season, a seemingly tough spot for a first-year coach.
WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the tight ends
August 15, 2019
The traditional hand-on-the-ground tight end has disappeared from some offenses around Western Pennsylvania.
Central Catholic turns the page after frustrating ’18 season
Last season was a difficult one for Central Catholic, hampered at times by turnovers and other self-inflicted mistakes.
Large, veteran offensive line to pave way for Mt. Lebanon
If there’s a difference between Class 5A and 6A football, maybe it’s the size of the linemen.
WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the wide receivers
August 14, 2019
Western Pennsylvania was known historically for producing hall of fame quarterbacks, a trend that shifted in recent decades to superstar defensive backs.
WPIAL Class 6A football breakdown: Coaches expect competitive year, wide-open field
There was a worry the WPIAL Class 6A playoffs might be boring because every game is a rematch from the regular season.
Mars’ Khori Fusco headed to prep powerhouse for post-graduate season
Mars basketball standout Khori Fusco, who was a senior last season, announced Tuesday he’s headed to a powerhouse prep school near Shippensburg.
WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs
August 13, 2019
High school football has become a pass-oriented game, but that doesn’t mean teams across Western Pennsylvania have abandoned running the football.
Bob Palko brings ‘tough love’ to Mt. Lebanon as football teams open camp
August 12, 2019
Bob Palko compared the first day of football camp to planning a beach vacation, even though the only deep blue in sight Monday was Mt. Lebanon’s helmets and his new Blue Devils shorts.
Mars’ Carmody picked for All-American Bowl, 4th WPIAL player in 4 years
For the fourth year in a row, the WPIAL had a high school football player chosen for the All-American Bowl.
WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks
WPIAL passing records have fallen one after another over the past five years, a sign high school football in Western Pennsylvania has changed.
WPIAL rules Isiah Warfield eligible for senior season, ineligible for playoffs
August 7, 2019
The WPIAL approved Isiah Warfield to play basketball in the regular season, but the Central Valley transfer remains ineligible for the playoffs.
Former West Mifflin coach Lance Maha returns to WPIAL basketball
August 6, 2019
Lance Maha, who coached boys basketball at West Mifflin for two decades, is returning to the WPIAL after one season away.
Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher postpones commitment hours before decision day
August 4, 2019
On the eve of commitment day, Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher decided to postpone his decision.
WPIAL football recruits share their written scholarship offers as August arrives
August 1, 2019
The first day of August is the date each year that college football coaches can send written scholarship offers to high school seniors.
Like his older brother, Seton LaSalle’s Dom Popa commits to Pitt baseball
July 31, 2019
Seton LaSalle’s Dom Popa, whose brother stars for Pitt, committed Monday to also play baseball for the Panthers.
Gateway transfer Diego Bledsoe remains ineligible over father’s critical comments
July 30, 2019
The PIAA listened to critical public comments made by Diego Bledsoe’s father and then upheld a WPIAL decision that leaves the Gateway transfer ineligible to play football.
PIAA overturns suspension levied against Central Catholic coach Brian Urso
The PIAA overturned a WPIAL decision and lifted the suspension given to Central Catholic boys basketball coach Brian Urso.
PIAA overturns WPIAL, makes West Mifflin football standout Nahki Johnson eligible
The recruiting allegations made against Nahki Johnson and coach Rod Steele were “unsubstantiated,” the PIAA decided Tuesday, so it ruled the West Mifflin football standout immediately eligible.
Clairton, McGuffey schedule Week 1 football game
July 29, 2019
Left idle by forfeits, McGuffey and Clairton will have Week 1 football games after all.
Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher sets commitment date
July 28, 2019
Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher hasn’t picked his college but the star linebacker did set a commitment date.
Alabama, rarely seen around WPIAL, offers Gateway junior Derrick Davis
Joe Namath starred there in the 1960s and Robert Foster picked Alabama earlier this decade, but Crimson Tide football offers don’t appear all that often in the WPIAL.
North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski commits to Richmond
July 27, 2019
North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski, one of the WPIAL’s top rising seniors, committed Saturday to Richmond.
WPIAL will re-evaluate how it schedules football after Northgate forfeits
July 26, 2019
The WPIAL will change the way it schedules nonconference football games after a team strategically forfeited for the second time in two years.
Gateway’s Derrick Davis adds Louisville offer as Gators take team trip
July 25, 2019
The Gateway football team took a road trip this week to Louisville and linebacker Derrick Davis picked up a souvenir to bring home.
Peters Township wide receiver Josh Casilli commits to Penn
Peters Township’s Josh Casilli committed Thursday to Penn, choosing an Ivy League path that was wildly successful for another WPIAL wide receiver just a few years ago.
WPIAL’s best football players take break for TribLive HSSN event
July 23, 2019
High school football teams have worked out together for months in weight rooms and practice fields, but suddenly those offseason sessions have a more serious tone.
Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington adds 2 more Division I offers
Quaker Valley has another Washington with Division I basketball talent.
Armstrong coach Frank Fabian ready for season after short-lived resignation
In two weeks, when WPIAL football teams start heat acclimation, Armstrong coach Frank Fabian will be there for his fifth season with the River Hawks.
QB Eric Wilson wants to help revive Sto-Rox tradition he grew up on
July 21, 2019
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 23 during a HSSN Media Day live broadcast at Kennywood Park.
North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski adds 2 more Division I offers
July 20, 2019
North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski, now in the heart of AAU basketball season, added two more college offers.
PIAA sets pitch-count limit for junior high baseball
July 19, 2019
The PIAA believes junior high baseball players shouldn’t throw as many pitches as high school hurlers, so a separate pitch count was established this week.
As incoming freshmen, WPIAL basketball’s 2023 class already looks special
Early indications say the WPIAL Class of 2023 will be special.
PIAA denies request to add games to baseball regular season
The high school baseball regular season will continue to have a 20-game limit after the PIAA denied a request to add more contests.
Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018-19 boys outdoor track season
July 18, 2019
Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton became the most talked about track star in the WPIAL this spring, a situation neither he nor his father could have imagined.
Trinity’s Riley DeRubbo commits to Atlantic 10 champion Fordham
July 17, 2019
A year after tearing an ACL, Trinity basketball standout Riley DeRubbo celebrated another milestone Wednesday when she committed to Atlantic 10 champion Fordham.
PIAA doesn’t support ‘diagonal’ pilot program for WPIAL soccer officials
WPIAL soccer referees must keep using the “double dual” officiating system, at least for now.
PIAA eligibility hearing for Moon’s Donovan Johnson postponed
The PIAA hearing scheduled Wednesday for Moon basketball standout Donovan Johnson was postponed.
Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018-19 girls outdoor track season
July 16, 2019
Maybe the biggest story of track season came months earlier when the WPIAL decided to move the individual championship meet to Slippery Rock.
Thomas Jefferson QB Shane Stump adds 3rd Division I offer
Thomas Jefferson’s Shane Stump, one of the WPIAL’s top quarterbacks, announced his third college offer from Dayton.
North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch adds 4 more basketball offers
Four more names joined the list of Division I basketball teams recruiting North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch.
PIAA schedules eligibility hearing for West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson
West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson will learn this month whether he can play football in the fall.
WPIAL declares two-sport Belle Vernon transfer Devin Whitlock eligible
July 15, 2019
Belle Vernon sophomore Devin Whitlock, a two-sport standout who transferred from Monessen, is eligible to play football and basketball this upcoming school year.
WPIAL leading scorer Keandre Bowles commits to junior college in Kansas
July 14, 2019
The WPIAL’s leading scorer is headed to the Great Plains.
Bishop Canevin’s Diajha Allen commits to St. Francis (Pa.)
Bishop Canevin’s Diajha Allen, a rising senior, announced her commitment to St. Francis (Pa.) basketball Sunday.
Bethel Park’s Olivia Westphal adds 4 more basketball offers
Bethel Park’s Olivia Westphal added several more names to her scholarship list Sunday.
Chartiers Valley’s Aislin Malcolm adds WVU basketball offer
Chartiers Valley basketball standout Aislin Malcolm, one of the WPIAL’s top rising sophomores, received an offer Sunday from West Virginia.
North Allegheny senior lineman Lugg forges his own path
North Allegheny’s Jake Lugg plays left tackle for the Tigers like older brother, Josh, did a few years earlier.
WPIAL soccer referees will switch to diagonal system, if PIAA approves
The WPIAL could change the way soccer games are officiated next season, if the PIAA approves.
PIAA baseball committee wants games added to regular season
July 13, 2019
Pennsylvania high school baseball teams could play a few more regular-season games next season, if the PIAA baseball steering committee gets its wish.
Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018-19 boys basketball season
July 12, 2019
With Moon and Mars leading the way, it’s safe to say the 2018-19 WPIAL boys basketball season was out of this world.
PIAA schedules appeal hearing for Moon’s Donovan Johnson
Basketball star Donovan Johnson will learn next week whether he can play his senior season at Moon.
After 2 years without, light towers return to Northgate’s stadium
Northgate football coach Michael Fulmore was headed home after a summer workout when something high in the Bellevue sky grabbed his attention.
While awaiting PIAA eligibility hearing, West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson giving 100 percent effort
July 11, 2019
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 23 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
North Allegheny’s Luke Colella gives Ivy League another WPIAL football recruit
July 10, 2019
Once a Tiger, always a Tiger?
Central Catholic baseball’s Will Ray commits to Wake Forest
July 9, 2019
Central Catholic’s Will Ray is the lastest WPIAL baseball recruit heading south.
NFHS expands exchange zones for some track relays
July 8, 2019
Some sprinters will have an extra 10 meters to make their relay exchange, the National Federation of State High School Associations decided.
Woodland Hills AD among candidates to coach boys basketball team
July 7, 2019
Woodland Hills’ next boys basketball coach might already work in the school’s athletic department.
Week Zero football showcase at Wolvarena expands to 2nd venue
The Western Pennsylvania vs. Everyone Football Showcase is officially too big for one stadium.
2 WPIAL football recruits announce 1st Division I offers from St. Francis
Two rising seniors in the WPIAL each received their first Division I football offers this week from St. Francis.
Like famous uncle, Central Catholic’s Elliot Donald seems poised for ‘great things’
July 6, 2019
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 23 during Trib HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Pine-Richland pitcher Tommy Beam commits to West Virginia
July 5, 2019
Pine-Richland pitcher Tommy Beam, who helped the Rams win a WPIAL title this spring, committed Friday to West Virginia.
Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018 football season
July 1, 2019
Fifteen years had passed since Darrelle Revis last played WPIAL football, but his name came up often last December in Hershey.
Former North Allegheny track star Ayden Owens transferring to Michigan
Ayden Owens enjoyed his freshman year on the West Coast, the warm weather and the Los Angeles lifestyle.
Incoming North Allegheny freshman announces Division 1 basketball offer
June 30, 2019
North Allegheny’s Jasmine Timmerson hasn’t started high school but already has a Division 1 basketball offer.
Trinity basketball’s Riley DeRubbo adds St. Francis offer
Trinity’s Riley DeRubbo, who missed most of her junior basketball season after knee surgery, has added another Division 1 offer.
Pennsylvania has nation’s No. 1-ranked small school football team
Defending PIAA champion Southern Columbia was ranked Sunday as the No. 1 small school football team in the country by the website High School Football America.
2 WPIAL schools honored nationally in preseason football rankings
WPIAL football teams Penn Hills and Pine-Richland were recognized by High School Football American in its national preseason rankings.
Aliquippa’s Devonshire named Trib HSSN Boys Athlete of the Year
MJ Devonshire might be too humble to rank himself among the high school greats from Aliquippa, but his accomplishments speak for themselves.
Looking back at the top 15 high school sports stories of the 2018-19 school year
June 29, 2019
8.6.18
Mars basketball’s Bella Pelaia commits to Mount St. Mary’s
June 28, 2019
For the third time in three years, the Mars girls basketball team has a Division 1 recruit.
Ex-Blackhawk baseball star Brendan McKay making major league debut
As the Trib’s player of the year in 2014, Blackhawk’s Brendan McKay was asked to predict where he saw himself in five years.
Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty grows along with expectations
June 27, 2019
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 23 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens leaving Southern Cal after stellar freshman year
North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens, who earned Pac-12 Freshman of the Year track honors this spring, announced Wednesday that he’s transferring from Southern Cal.
North Allegheny lineman Jake Lugg chooses Ivy League football
June 26, 2019
The Ivy League added a top WPIAL lineman for the second time in two days when North Allegheny’s Jake Lugg committed Wednesday to Harvard.
Thomas Jefferson lineman Mac Duda commits to Ivy League champion
Thomas Jefferson lineman Mac Duda, who counted all eight Ivy League schools among his offers, committed Tuesday to Princeton.
Peters Township’s Joe Maize resigns as baseball coach after 35 years
June 25, 2019
A sign in Joe Maize’s game room reminds visitors that “Baseball Lives Here,” an item he picked up while visiting Cooperstown, N.Y.
2 WPIAL basketball recruits named in updated ESPN rankings for 2020
June 24, 2019
Two WPIAL basketball recruits received spots close together in updated ESPN 100 rankings for the 2020 class.
Head of the Class: Baseball Player and Coach of the Year for each classification
The WPIAL baseball playoffs were as unpredictable as ever this season with only one top-seeded team winning a title.
Woodland Hills tight end Josh Rawlings commits to Virginia over ACC rivals
June 23, 2019
Virginia was the first Power 5 program to offer Woodland Hills’ Josh Rawlings a football scholarship in December.
Serra Catholic’s Mark Black named Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year
The Youghiogheny runs beyond the outfield fence at Boston Field in McKeesport, the home for Serra Catholic baseball.
WPIAL’s youth movement shows in 2019 Trib HSSN baseball all-stars
WPIAL baseball has witnessed an influx of talented freshmen in recent years and their arrival is reflected in the Trib 10.
West Mifflin standout Nahki Johnson among 2 ruled ineligible by WPIAL
June 20, 2019
West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson and Gateway’s Diego Bledsoe played football together last season at Steel Valley before each transferred elsewhere.
WPIAL awards playoff eligibility to Kiski, Gateway football transfers
The WPIAL ruled Kiski Area’s Kenneth Blake and Gateway’s Shane Thrift fully eligible to play football this fall following separate hearings Thursday at the league office in Green Tree.
WPIAL declares Belle Vernon multi-sport standout Devin Whitlock ineligible
June 18, 2019
Multi-sport standout Devin Whitlock, who transferred from Monessen to Belle Vernon after his freshman year, was ruled ineligible by the WPIAL.
North Catholic’s Tess Myers follows family tradition, commits to Duquesne
June 17, 2019
Four decades after her father committed to Duquesne, North Catholic’s Tess Myers committed Monday to play basketball for the Dukes.
Moon’s Donovan Johnson remains ineligible after WPIAL denies waiver request
The WPIAL denied Donovan Johnson’s waiver request Monday, leaving the Moon basketball star ineligible for his senior season.
Mars’ Michael Carmody, WPIAL’s top-ranked football recruit, commits to Notre Dame
June 16, 2019
Almost two years to the day that Robby Carmody committed to Notre Dame basketball, his younger brother Michael committed Sunday to play football for the Fighting Irish.
How public-private legislation would alter Pa. high school sports landscape
June 15, 2019
In the hot-button debate over public and private school athletics, the PIAA has consistently said state legislation from 1972 prevents the organization from splitting the schools into separate playoffs.
Seneca Valley lineman Josh Kaltenberger commits to Purdue
Seneca Valley’s Josh Kaltenberger received his first Power 5 offer Tuesday from Purdue.
West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson among 5 scheduled for WPIAL hearings Thursday
Football standout Nahki Johnson, who transferred from Steel Valley to West Mifflin in December, will have his eligibility decided Thursday in a hearing at the WPIAL office.
Devon Prep avoids Serra star Mark Black in 7th, dashes Eagles’ PIAA title hopes
June 14, 2019
UNIVERSITY PARK — Devon Prep challenged Serra Catholic star Mark Black three times Friday, but with two outs in the seventh and first base open, there was no reason to take that chance again.
‘Nightmarish’ inning costs Beaver in PIAA championship loss to Selinsgrove
UNIVERSITY PARK — This season was mostly a dream come true until the fifth inning Friday, which felt quite the opposite.
West Perry’s walk-off win dashes Elizabeth Forward’s state title hopes
June 13, 2019
UNIVERSITY PARK — In his 41 years as a softball coach, Elizabeth Forward’s Harry Rutherford had never seen a play quite like this.
Scott Dibble resigns as Canevin basketball coach, heads to NBA Finals, U.S. Open
Scott Dibble resigned as Bishop Canevin’s girls basketball coach but that didn’t leave his calendar wide open.
Frazier softball’s state championship game moved to Friday as PIAA revamps schedule
UNIVERSITY PARK — The PIAA rearranged its softball and baseball championships schedule Thursday and postponed two games to Friday after rain soaked Penn State’s campus.
WPIAL basketball star Isiah Warfield transferring from Sewickley Academy
June 12, 2019
WPIAL basketball standout Isiah Warfield, a 25-point scorer last season at Sewickley Academy, has transferred home to Central Valley for his senior year.
Legislation to split public, private school sports ‘poorly crafted,’ PIAA exec says
June 11, 2019
Legislation introduced Tuesday to split public and private high school athletics was “poorly crafted” and an “end-around of the (State Athletic) Oversight Committee,” said PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi.
High school sports proposal would separate public, private playoffs, ax PIAA transfer restrictions
Public and private high schools will compete for separate state championships, and strict transfer rules will vanish under the “Parity in Interscholastic Athletics Act” introduced Tuesday by a Western Pennsylvania state representative.
Western Pa. representative readies legislation to separate private, public school playoffs
June 10, 2019
The executive director of the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference sat down with outspoken public school advocates in February for a frank conversation about the current PIAA playoff system.
PIAA postpones all baseball, softball semifinals involving WPIAL teams
The PIAA postponed many of Monday’s baseball and softball semifinals because of weather to Tuesday, including all involving WPIAL teams.
Central Catholic defensive end A.J. Beatty commits to North Carolina
June 9, 2019
Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty, who announced more Division 1 offers than any WPIAL football recruit in the 2020 class, cut his long list down to one.
Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher adds 5th ACC scholarship offer
Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher added his fifth ACC offer this week.
Union lineman Aaron Gunn announces Michigan State offer
Union’s Aaron Gunn, a rising junior who’s recruiting stock is also on the rise, announced an offer from Michigan State.
Baseball semifinal sites, times: WPIAL Class 2A finalists rematch at West Mifflin
June 7, 2019
Twelve days after Seton LaSalle defeated Serra Catholic in the WPIAL championship, the section rivals will rematch in the state semifinals.
Softball semifinal sites, times: 6 WPIAL teams 1 victory away from PIAA finals
Hempfield is one win away from its fourth consecutive appearance in the state softball championships.
North Allegheny capitalizes on errors to defeat rival Pine-Richland
June 6, 2019
Twelve errors in three games will eventually catch up to any baseball team, even a talented WPIAL champion.
Pine-Richland sack leader Miguel Jackson announces 1st Division 1 offer
Pine-Richland sack leader Miguel Jackson, who earned all-conference recognition last season as a sophomore, announced his first Division 1 offer Wednesday from Akron.
PIAA postpones 3 softball playoff games, moves Class 6A baseball quarterfinal
The PIAA postponed three softball games scheduled Thursday at Slippery Rock University and moved the North Allegheny vs. Pine-Richland baseball game to a different site.
WPIAL suspends McKeesport basketball assistant 1 year for recruiting
June 5, 2019
McKeesport pays Troy Blackwell to convince charter school students to return to the school district, but the WPIAL ruled Wednesday that the assistant girls basketball coach’s efforts violated recruiting rules.
WPIAL delays eligibility decision on Moon basketball star Donovan Johnson
Donovan Johnson’s senior season remains in limbo.
Central Catholic basketball coach avoids 1-year suspension, must sit 2 games
Central Catholic boys basketball coach Brian Urso avoided a one-year ban for recruiting, but the WPIAL still wants him suspended for a scrimmage and two regular-season games next season.
Softball sites, times: 11 WPIAL teams reach PIAA quarterfinals
June 4, 2019
WPIAL softball champions Laurel, West Greene and Elizabeth Forward will take part in a PIAA playoff tripleheader Thursday at Slippery Rock University.
Baseball sites, times: North Allegheny, Pine-Richland rematch in quarterfinals
Section rivals Pine-Richland and North Allegheny will rematch Thursday in a PIAA Class 6A baseball quarterfinal at LaRoche College.
Pine-Richland defeats Penn-Trafford to claim 6th WPIAL baseball title
With Wild Things Park stuck under a layer of rain clouds, Penn-Trafford and Pine-Richland waited an extra day to play their WPIAL baseball championship.
4 days after winning WPIAL baseball title, Shaler’s emotional postseason run ends
June 3, 2019
When Shaler’s championship season ended abruptly Monday, baseball coach Brian Junker gathered his players in right field and simply told them “thank you.”
Valparaiso recruits WPIAL with help from former Western Pa. standout
June 2, 2019
Football coaches at Notre Dame and Ball State have found success recruiting the WPIAL, but now another Indiana school has joined the picture.
Paul Posluszny, Sean Lee enjoy ‘special’ night at WPIAL Hall of Fame induction
June 1, 2019
Paul Posluszny and Sean Lee were teammates at Penn State, groomsmen in each other’s weddings and close friends throughout their NFL days.
Plenty of reasons to celebrate for NFBD All-Star players
If Hollis Mathis scores an all-star game touchdown Sunday, he might have to call somebody immediately.
Softball sites, times: 4 WPIAL teams headed to Penn State’s Beard Field for PIAA openers
Four WPIAL softball teams will take an early look at the state championship site.
Shady Side’s Melissa Riggins among 9 WPIAL girls named PTFCA all-state
May 31, 2019
Shady Side Academy runner Melissa Riggins, who set a meet record at the PIAA Class AA track and field championships last week, earned first-team all-state honors from the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.
North Allegheny’s Zach Kinne leads WPIAL boys on PTFCA all-state team
North Allegheny’s Zach Kinne, the WPIAL and PIAA Class AAA champion in the 3,200 meters, was named a first-team all-state selection by the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.
Baseball sites, times: PIAA schedules tripleheaders at Latrobe, Butler
Pullman Park in Butler and Latrobe high school will host tripleheaders Monday in the first round of the state baseball playoffs.
Pine-Richland defeats Penn-Trafford to claim 6th WPIAL baseball title
May 30, 2019
With Wild Things Park stuck under a layer of rain clouds, Penn-Trafford and Pine-Richland waited an extra day to play their WPIAL baseball championship.
Beaver rolls past section rival Blackhawk for 4th WPIAL baseball title
May 29, 2019
Six runs was the unofficial goal, but Beaver reached that by the fourth inning and the number just kept going higher.
WPIAL changes start time for Class 3A softball final between Avonworth, Keystone Oaks
With rain in the forecast, the WPIAL moved up the start time for the Class 3A softball final Wednesday at Peterswood Park.
WPIAL Class 4A baseball final preview: Blackhawk vs. Beaver
WPIAL Class 4A baseball championship
Steel Valley captures 2nd WPIAL baseball title with comeback victory over Hopewell
May 28, 2019
Steel Valley has a knack for championship comebacks.
Aliquippa’s Devonshire among top names playing in Big 33 Classic
May 26, 2019
Track season ended Saturday for Aliquippa’s M.J. Devonshire, who won state titles in the 100- and 200-meter dashes at the PIAA championship.
Final results from 2019 PIAA track and field championships
Track and field
PIAA recap: WPIAL athletes win 11 events at state track championships
The weekend started slowly but WPIAL athletes rallied on Saturday and won 11 events at the PIAA track and field championships in Shippensburg.
Burrell 400 relay breaks school record, wins PIAA gold
May 25, 2019
SHIPPENSBURG — Burrell sprinter Jocelyn Vickers ran her opening leg of the 400-meter relay and then hurried toward the finish line to wait for her team’s baton to arrive.
Avonworth/Northgate’s Hayden Robinson finds ‘relief’ in 100-meter victory at PIAAs
SHIPPENSBURG — There, of course, was happiness and excitement as Hayden Robinson crossed the finish line first at Seth Grove Stadium.
Aliquippa sprinter M.J. Devonshire wins gold in 100, 200 at PIAA championship
SHIPPENSBURG — Aliquippa has a storied history of all-time great all-around athletes who wore the Quips’ red and black.
North Allegheny’s Zach Kinne leads 5 WPIAL runners on 3,200 medal podium at PIAAs
SHIPPENSBURG — North Allegheny’s Zachary Kinne was running at Seth Grove Stadium, otherwise the state championship sure felt a lot like the WPIAL meet.
Brownsville’s Gionna Quarzo defends 3,200 title in record time at PIAA Class AA championship
Brownsville’s Gionna Quarzo heard a voice from above helping her set a meet record Saturday at the PIAA track and field championships.
No WPIAL athletes win PIAA titles on Day 1, Beaver’s Emma Pavelek comes very close
May 24, 2019
SHIPPENSBURG — Beaver sophomore Emma Pavelek leaped plenty high enough to win a state title, matching her top rival jump for jump at Seth Grove Stadium.
Burrell’s Sharrow redeems herself in 300 hurdles, advances to PIAA finals
SHIPPENSBURG — Burrell’s Kaylen Sharrow stumbled to the finish line last year at Seth Grove Stadium and then waited nervously, hoping to hear her named called for the 300-meter finals.
WPIAL controversy settled, Waynesburg hurdler has ‘something to prove to myself’ at PIAAs
This week was calmer than last for WPIAL champion hurdler and pole vaulter Daniel Layton, but it wasn’t without incident.
WPIAL sprint champion Hayden Robinson among favorites for PIAA gold
May 23, 2019
Hayden Robinson has one goal for her final trip to Shippensburg.
Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green commits to Michigan
Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green committed Thursday to Michigan.
Mars celebrates 11th-inning victory over top-seeded West Allegheny in 5A playoffs
May 22, 2019
Four hours after first pitch, long after the sun had set, Mars players and fans joined together on Burkett Field to celebrate their 11-inning victory in the WPIAL baseball playoffs.
Bach sharp as Yough takes down South Park in Class 4A quarterfinals
May 20, 2019
Jarett Bach’s first-round start didn’t meet his high standards, but Monday’s was surely one of his best.
Plum sophomore Kennedie Montue receives 1st Division 1 basketball offer
May 19, 2019
Plum sophomore Kennedie Montue, the team’s leading scorer two years in a row, announced her first Division 1 basketball offer Sunday from Marshall.
Western Pa.-connected Colorado State offers WPIAL offensive linemen
Western Pennsylvania football fans probably know Colorado State as the alma mater of former Steelers linebacker Joey Porter.
University Prep’s Michael Snowden lists first FBS football offer
College recruiters are chasing after Westinghouse’s Dayon Hayes, but he’s not the only Division 1 football prospect in the City League.
Former Pine-Richland, West A standout Kenny White announces Akron offer
Former Pine-Richland and West Allegheny football standout Kenny White, now a junior college freshman, announced a scholarship offer from Akron.
Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green includes Pitt among Top 5 schools
May 18, 2019
Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green, who ranked among the WPIAL’s top college recruits before transferring out of state, announced a Top 5 list Friday that included Pitt and four Big Ten schools.
Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty narrows lengthy offers list to 7 favorites
May 17, 2019
Central Catholic junior A.J. Beatty, who leads WPIAL football recruits with more than 40 combined FBS and FCS offers, narrowed his lengthy list Friday.
Baldwin’s Brendan O’Malley earns bragging rights by winning 3 WPIAL gold medals
Brendan O’Malley’s twin brother Bailey won WPIAL gold last season and defended his shot put title again Thursday.
South Park’s Maura Huwalt leads multiple winners at WPIAL championships with 3 gold medals
May 16, 2019
As a six-time WPIAL champion, South Park’s Maura Huwalt now ranks among the most accomplished throwers in WPIAL history.
Aliquippa’s M.J. Devonshire wins 3 golds, replaces Quips great in record book
Breaking a WPIAL record made M.J. Devonshire smile, but what he liked most was that he’d supplanted a fellow Quips great.
Citing ‘something to prove,’ Waynesburg’s Layton defends WPIAL hurdles title
Waynesburg hurdler Daniel Layton tried not to think about his stressful week when standing at the starting line.
PIAA overturns WPIAL, Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton can defend hurdles title
May 15, 2019
A clerical error will not prevent Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton from defending his WPIAL title in the 110-meter hurdles, the PIAA decided Wednesday.
Moon basketball’s Donovan Johnson receives North Carolina scholarship offer
May 14, 2019
Hours after earning all-state player of the year honors, Moon’s Donovan Johnson received a scholarship offer from North Carolina.
Moon’s Donovan Johnson leads all-state basketball selections as Pa. Player of the Year in Class 5A
Moon’s Donovan Johnson was named as the state’s Class 5A boys basketball player of the year Tuesday and Adam Kaufman was named coach of the year after leading the Tigers to a PIAA title in March.
WPIAL wants to hear from 2 basketball coaches facing recruiting allegations
May 13, 2019
The WPIAL board voted Monday to schedule hearings for two basketball programs facing recruiting allegations.
Waynesburg hurdler Daniel Layton turns to PIAA after WPIAL denies his request
Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton won’t be able to defend his WPIAL hurdles title unless the PIAA intervenes.
West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson receives 2nd football offer from Big 12 school
West Mifflin sophomore Nahki Johnson announced his second Big 12 football offer this week.
Blackhawk safety Marques Watson-Trent announces first FBS offer
May 12, 2019
Blackhawk’s Marques Watson-Trent, an all-conference safety and running back, received his first FBS offer this week.
USA Today releases “Way-Too-Early” high school football rankings
Football season is still months away, but USA Today released its “Way-Too-Early” high school rankings this week.
Union lineman Aaron Gunn adds 2nd Power 5 offer
One of the WPIAL’s smallest schools features one of the WPIAL’s biggest sophomores.
Upper St. Clair, Oakland Catholic seeded No. 1 for WPIAL girls lacrosse playoffs
Oakland Catholic and Upper St. Clair earned the No. 1 seeds in the WPIAL girls lacrosse brackets revealed Friday.
Penn-Trafford, West Allegheny among No. 1 seeds in WPIAL baseball playoff brackets
Penn-Trafford, West Allegheny, Greensburg Salem, Freeport, Shenango and California received No. 1 seeds Friday when the WPIAL revealed baseball playoff brackets.
Butler’s Ethan Morton latest WPIAL basketball recruit headed out of state
May 9, 2019
The WPIAL doesn’t produce an abundance of major-college men’s basketball recruits, but it has seen its share of three- and four-star prospects in recent years.
Butler basketball star Ethan Morton commits to Purdue
Rarely does the WPIAL have a basketball star whose recruitment stretches nearly coast to coast.
North Allegheny, Penn-Trafford earn No. 1 seeds in WPIAL softball playoffs
North Allegheny, Penn-Trafford, Mt. Pleasant, Avonworth, Chartiers-Houston and West Greene received No. 1 seeds Thursday when the WPIAL revealed softball playoff brackets.
North Allegheny, Mars receive top seeds in WPIAL boys lacrosse playoffs
North Allegheny and Mars received the top seeds Thursday when the WPIAL revealed brackets for the boys lacrosse playoffs.
Bishop Canevin hires football coach T.J. Wiley
May 8, 2019
Former Northgate, Deer Lakes and Penn-Trafford football coach T.J. Wiley is headed to Bishop Canevin.
3rd WPIAL baseball team forfeits after violating pitch-count rule
May 7, 2019
Two weeks after defeating section-leading Hopewell, Beaver Falls gave the victory back.
Butler basketball star Ethan Morton will make his college decision this week
Butler basketball star Ethan Morton holds nearly two dozen scholarship offers, having added one after another since Cleveland State gave him his first three summers ago.
North Catholic basketball teammates add offers just before recruiting shutdown
May 6, 2019
A week-long recruiting shutdown starts Monday for NCAA women’s basketball coaches, but North Catholic teammates Tess Myers and Kylee Lewandowski each pulled in an offer just before the deadline.
Texas A&M targets linemen from WPIAL, City League
May 5, 2019
With NFL first-round picks Myles Garrett, Mike Evans and Von Miller all recent Aggies, Texas A&M football coaches can make a strong nationwide pitch to recruits.
Public school advocates plan another ‘athletic equity’ summit
Public school advocates are planning another statewide summit this summer to further their campaign to create separate PIAA playoffs.
Notre Dame offers another Carmody — this time for football
Could Notre Dame recruit two Carmody brothers?
East-West game gives 16 WPIAL football players 1 last go-round
May 4, 2019
May isn’t typical football season in Western Pennsylvania, but it is for 68 seniors from across the state who will gather Sunday in Altoona.
WPIAL baseball rankings for week of May 5, 2019
Here are this week’s Trib HSSN baseball rankings:
Pitch-count confusion forces another WPIAL baseball team to forfeit
May 1, 2019
The PIAA’s new pitch-count rule forced another WPIAL baseball team to forfeit.
Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty adds 40th offer, sets date to announce favorites
A.J. Beatty’s scholarship total has climbed for weeks, but the Central Catholic junior will start narrowing his options soon.
Central Catholic’s Elliot Donald adds West Virginia, Syracuse offers
April 28, 2019
Elliot Donald’s uncle ranks among Pitt’s all-time greats, but that didn’t stop West Virginia from recruiting him.
Nebraska football makes recruiting push into Western Pennsylvania
Nebraska’s football roster lists 75 players from the Cornhusker State and a number of others from the midwest, but coach Scott Frost’s staff is making a push in Pennsylvania.
WPIAL baseball rankings for week of April 28, 2019
April 27, 2019
Here’s a look at this week’s Trib HSSN WPIAL baseball rankings:
Latrobe’s Williams leaves home track as big winner at WCCA meet
Latrobe sprinter Zakharee Williams always has considered himself a strong finisher.
Winning 300 hurdles at WCCA meet a breeze for Burrell’s Sharrow
As Burrell’s Kaylen Sharrow stood at the starting line, the hurdlers in the other lanes weren’t what concerned her most.
PBC Roundball welcomes several elite players for pair of games Saturday
April 26, 2019
The public address announcer gave Moses Malone a Roundball Classic introduction of Biblical proportions.
West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson announces Pitt, West Virginia offers hours apart
April 24, 2019
West Mifflin sophomore Nahki Johnson could watch the recruiting version of the Backyard Brawl.
Central Catholic hires college assistant as boys basketball coach
Central Catholic dipped into the college ranks Wednesday and hired Brian Urso as boys basketball coach.
100 or 105? Confusion over pitch-count rule forces WPIAL baseball team to forfeit
When the PIAA increased the baseball pitch count from 100 to 105 last summer, that change affected only the playoffs.
Senior season in question for Moon basketball star Donovan Johnson
April 23, 2019
Moon junior Donovan Johnson won a state basketball title this winter as one of the best players in the WPIAL, but his eligibility for next season is in question.
Woodland Hills TE Josh Rawlings names Pitt among his ‘Elite 8’
April 21, 2019
Woodland Hills junior Josh Rawlings, a football recruit with more than two dozen offers, announced Sunday a Top 8 list of favorites that included Pitt.
Butler’s Ethan Morton draws recognition from USA Today, MaxPreps
Butler basketball star Ethan Morton was named to USA Today’s All-Pennsylvania team — one of two honors the junior received this week.
In issue of separating public, private schools, PIAA wants time
April 19, 2019
The PIAA administration is watching closely as a state legislator wades into the public vs. private debate, but it would rather see its own competitive-balance efforts given time to work.
Westinghouse’s Dayon Hayes adds Penn State offer, drawing recruiters to City League
Westinghouse junior Dayon Hayes is becoming the hottest City League football recruit in years.
Greensburg Salem’s Malia Anderson runs state’s fastest 800 meters at Butler Invitational
Greensburg Salem senior Malia Anderson ran the fastest time in the state this season to win the girls 800 meters Thursday at the Butler Invitational.
Seneca Valley AD Heather Lewis joining WPIAL board of directors
April 18, 2019
Seneca Valley athletic director Heather Lewis is the only newcomer voted onto the WPIAL board of directors this year in election results revealed Wednesday.
Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher gains popularity with ACC, Big 10 football coaches
Aliquippa junior Zuriah Fisher is popular with ACC and Big 10 football coaches.
WPIAL requests eligibility hearing for West Mifflin transfer Nahki Johnson
The WPIAL board voted Wednesday to hold an eligibility hearing for West Mifflin sophomore Nahki Johnson.
Decline in ticket sales hurts WPIAL budget, limits money shared back to schools
Penn Hills, Pine-Richland and Butler will receive more than $5,000 apiece from the WPIAL as part of its annual share-back program from playoff gate ticket revenues.
WPIAL softball championships headed to Peterswood Park for 2019
April 17, 2019
The WPIAL softball championships are headed to Peterswood Park in Peters Township next month.
WPIAL awards $1,000 scholarships to 20 scholar-athletes
The WPIAL announced the 20 winners of its annual scholar-athlete scholarship contest. Each receives $1,000 and will be honored at a banquet May 13 at the DoubleTree in Green Tree.
Peterswood Park chosen to host WPIAL softball championships
Peterswood Park in Peters Township will host the WPIAL softball championships next month.
Bill Sinning retiring after 14 years overseeing WPIAL playoff officials
Bill Sinning has overseen WPIAL officials since 2006, but the retired basketball referee will leave that task to someone else next year.
Pitt coaches pursue another Baldwin lineman, extend offer to sophomore
April 16, 2019
From Dave Wannstedt to Jason Pinkston, Baldwin and Pitt have had a number of links through the years.
Seneca Valley’s Josh Kaltenberger nears dozen Division 1 football offers
April 14, 2019
Seneca Valley junior Josh Kaltenberger, one of the state’s top centers, is quickly approaching a dozen Division 1 football offers.
Peters Township girls basketball ends perfect season ranked No. 24 nationally
Undefeated record, WPIAL championship, state championship and national ranking.
2 WPIAL sophomores rank among nation’s top football recruits for 2021
Two WPIAL sophomores were ranked this week among the nation’s top football recruits by 247Sports in the websites list of 2021 prospects.
Waynesburg’s Scott Benco claims top distance in state javelin rankings
Waynesburg javelin thrower Scott Benco took over the top spot in the state rankings with a 192-foot, 6-inch toss Saturday, a distance that also ranks him among the nation’s best this season.
Central Catholic sophomore Elliot Donald announces Wisconsin football offer
Paul Chryst left Western Pennsylvania five years ago, but the former Pitt coach still recruits the WPIAL.
WPIAL switches 2 Class A nonconference football matchups
The WPIAL let four Class A football teams flip their Week 9 nonconference opponents to create better matchups.
Peters Township’s Makenna Marisa earns All-American honors from MaxPreps
Peters Township’s Makenna Marisa earned All-American honors from MaxPreps which named the senior as one of the nation’s Top 50 girls basketball players.
Oakland Catholic’s Jayla Ellis earns 4 medals, sets record at TSTCA championship
Two first-place medals, two seconds and a meet record caused Oakland Catholic’s Jayla Ellis to smile Saturday, but so did a candid compliment from her coach.
2 WPIAL girls javelin champions headline Tri-State Track Coaches Championship
April 12, 2019
The girls javelin field at the TSTCA Outdoor Championship will have two defending WPIAL champions Saturday with Elizabeth Forward’s Brianna Spirnak and South Park’s Maura Huwalt each scheduled to throw at West Mifflin.
Seneca Valley, North Allegheny ADs among 18 candidates vying for WPIAL board
Seneca Valley athletic director Heather Lewis and North Allegheny athletic director Bob Bozzuto are among the school administrators seeking to join the WPIAL board of directors this summer.
Olympian Lauryn Williams among 11 entering Beaver County Sports Hall
Olympian Lauryn Williams, a Rochester native who won medals in both the Summer and Winter Games, is among 11 inductees set to enter the Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame this month.
Allderdice selects former Central Catholic assistant Devin Crummie as boys basketball coach
April 10, 2019
Devin Crummie, a longtime assistant boys basketball coach at Central Catholic, is headed to Allderdice.
Sister vs. sister: ‘Sibling rivalry’ as North Catholic softball hosts Ellwood City
April 9, 2019
Adrienne and Angie Nardone will share a softball field Wednesday afternoon when Ellwood City visits North Catholic.WPIAL denies postseason eligibility to 3 softball players after transfers
April 7, 2019
The WPIAL denied postseason eligibility to three softball players under the new PIAA rule that makes transfers ineligible unless they qualify for a specific waiver.
Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green adds 11th offer since March 1
Former North Catholic standout Nikhai Hill-Green left Pennsylvania this winter, but college recruiters have found him in Maryland.
Peters Township freshman Journey Thompson adds 2nd basketball offer
Journey Thompson’s remarkable spring continues.
Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty announces SEC football offer
Central Catholic defensive end A.J. Beatty announced his first SEC offer Saturday, adding to a growing list that already includes ACC, Big 10 and Big 12 schools.
TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball Player of the Year: Moon’s Donovan Johnson
Donovan Johnson’s storybook season had a major plot twist near the end.
TribLive HSSN Girls Basketball Player of the Year: Peters Township’s Makenna Marisa
Makenna Marisa was dominant all season long, but the Peters Township senior seemingly saved her best for under the bright Giant Center lights in Hershey.
West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson announces ACC football offer
West Mifflin sophomore Nahki Johnson, who won a WPIAL football title last fall at Steel Valley, added his first Power 5 scholarship offer Saturday.
2 perfect seasons help shape Trib 10 girls basketball all-star team
April 6, 2019
One word can describe both Peters Township and Chartiers Valley: Perfect.
3 high-scoring juniors join senior-heavy Trib 10 boys basketball all-stars
Western Pennsylvania had no shortage of standout scorers this season.
Trib HSSN WPIAL baseball rankings for week of April 7, 2019
Baseball rankings
Ousted at West Mifflin, football coach Ray Braszo returns to roots in Steel Valley
April 3, 2019
Ray Braszo wore West Mifflin blue and gold for nearly three decades, but the veteran football coach also has deep roots in Steel Valley.
North Allegheny runner posts early-season time to beat in 3,200 meters
March 31, 2019
Outdoor track season is only two weekends old, but elite North Allegheny runner Zach Kinne already holds the state’s top time in the 3,200 meters.
Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty nears 3 dozen offers with ACC, Big 10, Big 12 options
The offers keep coming for Central Catholic junior A.J. Beatty.
Pine-Richland’s Dan Petcash commits to Binghamton
Pine-Richland’s Dan Petcash, one of the WPIAL’s top seniors, committed Sunday to Binghamton.
Bethel Park’s Maddie Dziezgowski commits to St. Bonaventure
Bethel Park junior Maddie Dziezgowski, who helped the Black Hawks reach the WPIAL girls basketball semifinals, announced her commitment Saturday to St. Bonaventure.
Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher becomes 2nd WPIAL junior with Penn State offer
Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher became the second WPIAL junior with a Penn State football offer when the Nittany Lions joined his scholarship list Saturday.
Former Elizabeth Forward basketball standout Tre Mitchell commits to UMass
March 29, 2019
Former Elizabeth Forward basketball standout Tre Mitchell, who left the WPIAL for a prep school in Connecticut, committed to Massachusetts on Friday.
Arizona basketball offer adds to Donovan Johnson’s month of madness
March has brought more joy than madness for Moon’s Donovan Johnson and his family.
McKeesport’s Deamontae Diggs draws 1st FBS offer as Buffalo blankets WPIAL
March 28, 2019
Buffalo had two football players with Western Pennsylvania roots last season, but the Bulls coaches spent this week trying to boost that number.
Woodland Hills TE Joshua Rawlings sees 3rd Big 10 school join recruiting list
Woodland Hills junior Joshua Rawlings quickly became one of the WPIAL’s hottest football recruits.
North Catholic’s Tess Myers adds 8th college offer after reaching state finals
North Catholic’s Tess Myers, one of the WPIAL’s top juniors, added another Division I offer after leading her basketball team to the state finals.
Mars junior Michael Carmody adds 2 ACC, 2 SEC football offers
Mars junior lineman Michael Carmody added two more ACC and SEC football offers this week, pushing his scholarship total to more than two dozen.
Fresh off NCAA upset, Sewickley Academy’s Isiah Warfield commits to Liberty
March 27, 2019
Isiah Warfield didn’t fill out an NCAA tournament bracket but did urge others to pick against fifth-seeded Mississippi State in the first round.
Pitt coaches offer scholarship to Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher
Pitt football coaches in decades past found great success recruiting in Aliquippa, a list that starts with all-time greats Mike Ditka, Sean Gilbert and Darrelle Revis.
Bethel Park hires Brian DeLallo as new football coach
March 26, 2019
Bethel Park administrators talked with a handful of football coaches from outside the district, but decided that their best candidate already was on staff.
Chartiers Valley finishes perfect season with victory over Archbishop Carroll in PIAA finals
March 23, 2019
HERSHEY — Had he known girls were so easy to coach, Tim McConnell would have switched years ago, the longtime boys basketball coach told his team.
Lincoln Park hangs on for 1-point victory over Trinity in PIAA championship
HERSHEY — This wasn’t the first time Lincoln Park built a double-digit lead and then held its breath until the clock reached zeroes.
PIAA Class 5A girls championship breakdown: Chartiers Valley vs. Archbishop Carroll
PIAA Class 5A girls championship
PIAA Class 3A boys championship breakdown: Lincoln Park vs. Trinity
PIAA Class 3A boys championship
PIAA Class 4A girls championship breakdown: North Catholic vs. Bethlehem Catholic
PIAA Class 4A girls championship
Moon rallies in 4th quarter to defeat Archbishop Wood in PIAA Class 5A final
March 22, 2019
HERSHEY — Moon coach Adam Kaufman was certain that this win would shock folks around the state.
Bentworth promotes assistant Knabb to coach football team
Bentworth promoted assistant John “J.J.” Knabb to head football coach, said athletic director Brian Malecki.
PIAA Class 5A boys championship breakdown: Moon vs. Archbishop Wood
PIAA Class 5A boys basketball championship
PIAA Class 6A girls championship breakdown: Peters Township vs. Garnet Valley
PIAA Class 6A girls basketball championship
WPIAL title escaped Moon’s grasp, but PIAA championship now within reach
Moon faced a crossroads after the WPIAL finals, a moment when its basketball season could have gone many different directions.
Vincentian falls to Philadelphia’s Sankofa Freedom Academy in PIAA Class A final
March 21, 2019
HERSHEY — While preparing for the state finals, Vincentian Academy coach Tim Tyree studied two separate game films of Sankofa Freedom Academy.
PIAA Class A boys championship breakdown: Vincentian vs. Sankofa Freedom
PIAA Class A boys championship
Lincoln Park headed back to Hershey after PIAA semifinal win over Sharon
March 19, 2019
Lincoln Park’s Isaiah Smith launched a 3-pointer from deep in the left corner and then slapped the floor in celebration as his fourth-quarter shot squeezed through the rim.
Donovan Johnson scores 28, leads Moon past Mars in PIAA semifinals
March 18, 2019
Donovan Johnson and his Moon teammates left in tears after losing to Mars in the WPIAL championship three weekends ago.
5 things to watch in the PIAA basketball semifinals
Moon and Mars combined for a dramatic WPIAL boys basketball championship earlier this month.
PIAA girls basketball sites, times: Chartiers Valley, Thomas Jefferson rematch Tuesday
March 17, 2019
WPIAL champion Chartiers Valley and runner-up Thomas Jefferson will rematch at 7 p.m., Tuesday in a PIAA Class 5A semifinal at Peters Township.
PIAA boys basketball sites, times: 6 WPIAL teams reach state semifinals
New Castle’s field house will host a state semifinal two nights in a row.
Oscar Tshiebwe’s double-double leads Kennedy Catholic past Mt. Lebanon in PIAA quarterfinal
March 16, 2019
This state quarterfinal win over Mt. Lebanon, a 17-point victory against a WPIAL champion, “was a world-class butt-whipping,” said Kennedy Catholic coach Rick Mancino.
PIAA basketball sites, times: Mars vs. Moon boys semifinal at New Castle
The PIAA needed an out-of-this-world site for a state semifinal between Mars and Moon — or at least a gym with lots of seats.
Mars uses near-perfect 2nd half to defeat Meadville in PIAA quarterfinals
March 15, 2019
Mars coach Rob Carmody felt mixed emotions when Mars freshman Zach Schlegel let fly a 3-pointer with an 11-point lead and two minutes left.
Mt. Lebanon uses hold-the-ball strategy to defeat Allderdice in PIAA 2nd round
March 13, 2019
Mt. Lebanon had a one-point lead in the fourth quarter, so the Blue Devils did what they do best.
PIAA girls basketball sites, times: Peters Township vs. Norwin at Keystone Oaks
The PIAA scheduled Peters Township vs. Norwin girls as the late game in a boys/girls basketball doubleheader at Keystone Oaks on Friday night.
PIAA boys basketball sites, times: Mars, New Castle scheduled back-to-back
WPIAL champions Mars and New Castle will play back-to-back Friday night in a PIAA boys basketball doubleheader at Slippery Rock University.
Turnovers costly as Quaker Valley loses to Bishop McDevitt in PIAA 2nd round
March 12, 2019
HOLLIDAYSBURG — Bishop McDevitt forced 15 first-half turnovers and built a 20-point halftime lead in Tuesday night’s 79-47 victory over Quaker Valley in the PIAA Class 4A second round.
Mars survives foul trouble to defeat York William Penn in PIAA 2nd round
HOLLIDAYSBURG — Mars coach Rob Carmody wrote one word in bold letters on the whiteboard inside the locker room: Poise.
5 things to watch in PIAA boys basketball: WPIAL, City League clash
The WPIAL and City League champions will meet head-to-head Wednesday for the fourth year in a row in the PIAA boys basketball playoffs.
After reaching WPIAL finals, Seneca Valley linemen drawing college offers
March 11, 2019
Seneca Valley reached the WPIAL football finals last fall behind a strong offensive line, and college coaches have taken notice.
Quarzo, Anderson run personal bests at New Balance Nationals Indoor
March 10, 2019
Brownsville’s Gionna Quarzo and Greensburg Salem’s Malia Anderson, two of the WPIAL’s top runners, set personal bests Sunday at the New Balance Nationals Indoor in New York.
Sites, times posted for PIAA girls basketball 2nd-round matchups
Class 6A
PIAA 2nd round sites, times announced for boys basketball playoffs
Class 6A
WPIAL, City League champions will clash at Canon-McMillan
WPIAL champion Mt. Lebanon and City League champion Allderdice will meet Wednesday night at Canon-McMillan in the second round of the PIAA Class 6A boys basketball playoffs.
4 WPIAL track standouts compete Sunday at New Balance Nationals Indoor in New York
Four WPIAL track standouts will compete Sunday at the New Balance Indoor Nationals in New York.
City League champion Allderdice defeats Canon-McMillan in overtime
March 9, 2019
Canon-McMillan chose to chase Allderdice’s guards around the court, so the Dragons turned instead to their 6-foot-7 center with a scorer’s touch.
WPIAL champion Neshannock advances in PIAA playoffs with 4-point victory over Tyrone
Neleh Nogay scored 14 points and Bella Burrelli added 10 as WPIAL champion Neshannock defeated Tyrone, 42-38, Friday night in a PIAA Class 3A first-round victory at North Allegheny.
WPIAL champion New Castle holds off Titusville in PIAA 1st-round victory
This was the sixth time New Castle entered the state playoffs as WPIAL champion under coach Ralph Blundo, so he understands the so-called “WPIAL hangover” better than most.
5 things to watch in the PIAA boys basketball playoffs
March 7, 2019
Coach Dan DeRose and his Penn Hills boys basketball players are leaving at 10 a.m. Friday for a four-hour bus ride to Hershey, the site picked for their state playoff opener.
WPIAL passing leader Tyler Bradley commits to Seton Hill
March 6, 2019
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart quarterback Tyler Bradley, the WPIAL’s top passer last season, committed Tuesday to Seton Hill.
Texas A&M joins schools recruiting Gateway sophomore Derrick Davis
Gateway’s Derrick Davis has another major college football team interested in him.
Chartiers Valley freshman Aislin Malcolm draws basketball offer from Pitt
Chartiers Valley freshman Aislin Malcolm scored 18 points Saturday at Petersen Events Center when her Colts won the WPIAL Class 5A girls basketball title.
PCN will re-air Quaker Valley vs. Annville-Cleonas PIAA basketball final from 1999
March 5, 2019
The Quaker Valley boys basketball team and coach Mike Mastroianni experienced a heartbreaking state championship loss to Annville-Cleonas 20 years ago this winter.
North Hills AD Amy Scheuneman joining WPIAL administration
March 4, 2019
North Hills athletic director Amy Scheuneman will resign this summer and accept an administrative position with the WPIAL.
Pine-Richland junior Luke Meckler adds 1st FBS offer
March 3, 2019
Pine-Richland junior Luke Meckler, a two-way standout for the WPIAL champion Rams, added his first FBS offer.
Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher adds Big 10 offer
Aliquippa junior Zuriah Fisher, a standout linebacker on a state championship defense, added his first Big 10 college offer.
Pitt, WVU recruits among Maryland picks for Big 33 Football Classic
Pitt recruit A.J. Woods, a cornerback from Germantown, Md., was among the 38 high school football players chosen to represent Maryland in the Big 33 Football Classic.
Mt. Lebanon shows patience in WPIAL championship win over Butler
March 2, 2019
Mt. Lebanon wanted to keep the ball out of Ethan Morton’s hands, so the Blue Devils just held onto it themselves.
WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball preview: New Castle vs. Quaker Valley
Class 4A boys
WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball preview: Butler vs. Mt. Lebanon
Class 6A boys
Recchia’s late 3-pointer helps Mars defend WPIAL Class 5A championship
March 1, 2019
Andrew Recchia was the only person at Petersen Events Center who already knew how this WPIAL championship would end.
WPIAL Class 2A boys basketball preview: OLSH vs. Serra Catholic
Class 2A boys
Lincoln Park tops North Catholic to claim WPIAL Class 3A championship
February 28, 2019
Against one of the WPIAL’s top shooting teams, Lincoln Park’s defense was willing to trade 3s for 2s.
Butler boys advance to WPIAL finals after emotional win over rival Pine-Richland
February 27, 2019
The final minute was so emotional, so unbelievable, that it seemed like an eternity to Ethan Morton and his Butler teammates.
WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball finals preview: Lincoln Park vs. North Catholic
Class 3A boys
WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball preview: Mars vs. Moon
Class 5A boys
Johnson’s double-double guides No. 3 Moon past Penn Hills in Class 5A semifinals
February 26, 2019
Two years ago, a star basketball player transferred home to Moon, reunited with his childhood friends and led the Tigers’ run to the WPIAL finals.
Longtime coach Chuck Crummie ‘hurt’ after Central Catholic fires him
Chuck Crummie will no longer coach on Chuck Crummie Court.
Five things to watch in the WPIAL boys basketball semifinals
February 25, 2019
As the old saying goes, it’s hard to beat a team three times in one season.
West Allegheny hires WPIAL champion to replace Bob Palko as track coach
February 22, 2019
West Allegheny lost one WPIAL champion coach but quickly added another.
No. 1 Lincoln Park scores first 14 points in victory over Beaver Falls
February 21, 2019
Lincoln Park’s Keeno Holmes made a 3-pointer on the opening possession and Isaiah Smith added another seconds later as the Leopards scored the first 14 points in Thursday night’s 82-54 victory over Beaver Falls in a WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal at New Castle.
No. 2 Aliquippa erases 14-point second-half deficit to defeat Neshannock
M.J. Devonshire was taking his official recruiting visit to Kentucky when Aliquippa lost to Neshannock in January, a loss that bothered him hundreds of miles away.
WPIAL Hall of Fame to announce 13th induction class
February 20, 2019
For some all-time WPIAL greats, 13 will be their lucky number.
WPIAL adds 2 boys basketball teams for 2019-20 season
One WPIAL boys basketball section will have a new look next season.
Carlynton hires former Peters Township football coach Piccinini
Carlynton has hired Rich Piccinini as football coach, the school announced Wednesday.
WPIAL schedules Aliquippa/Lincoln Park doubleheader at New Castle
February 19, 2019
Lincoln Park and Aliquippa, the WPIAL’s top seeds in Class 3A boys basketball, can’t meet until the finals.
Shaler defeats McKeesport, celebrates 1st playoff win since ’12
It’s been awhile since this kind of celebration was heard inside Shaler’s locker room.
Fox Chapel feels it after 1st quarter, beats Seneca Valley
February 18, 2019
Fox Chapel missed 10 of its first 11 shots Tuesday night, a dismal start that could have doomed the team’s playoff hopes, but then suddenly, they almost couldn’t miss.
4 WPIAL athletes win multiple individual golds at TSTCA indoor championship
February 17, 2019
Mt. Lebanon junior Patrick Anderson ran the state’s fastest mile Saturday and four WPIAL athletes won multiple individual gold medals at the TSTCA indoor championships in Edinboro.
Penn Hills football’s Daequan Hardy receives another postseason award
Penn Hills senior Daequan Hardy added another postseason honor to his list.
Ohio State joins list of schools recruiting Mars’ Michael Carmody
February 15, 2019
Mars junior Michael Carmody added his ninth Big 10 football offer Thursday when conference champion Ohio State joined his scholarship list.
North Catholic football standout Nikhai Hill-Green announces transfer out of state
North Catholic’s Nikhai Hill-Green, one of the WPIAL’s top football players, said Friday that he’s transferring out of state.
No. 6 Union tops No. 11 Clairton with barrage of third-quarter 3-pointers
February 14, 2019
Union followed a nine-point second quarter with a 29-point third, and the difference was a few well-timed 3-pointers.
5 things to watch in the opening round of the WPIAL boys basketball playoffs
Good bye or bad bye?
PIAA football semifinals schedule: Penn Hills, Pine-Richland head east
November 25, 2018
Penn Hills and Pine-Richland have long bus rides ahead next weekend, while three other WPIAL football champions can stay closer to home. The PIAA announced semifinal sites and times Sunday. Penn Hills will travel to Chambersburg for a matchup with Archbishop Wood at 7 p.m., Friday. Pine-Richland returns to Altoona's
WPIAL causes buzz by seeding Burgettstown second in deep Class 2A bracket
October 29, 2018
When the Class 2A bracket appeared on the overhead screen, Mark Druga knew immediately that his phone would start buzzing, so he turned it off. andquot;I did not want to interrupt the process,andquot; the Burgettstown coach said Monday at the WPIAL pairings meeting. andquot;I didn't want to be that guy,
With Heinz Field rematch possible, might Pine-Richland, North Allegheny hold back in regular-season finale?
October 26, 2018
It's possible that Pine-Richland and North Allegheny will play one another twice in the span of a few weeks. The two top-ranked rivals are favorites to rematch in the WPIAL Class 6A final, so might that affect how NA coach Art Walker and Pine's Eric Kasperowicz approach Friday's matchup in
Five things we learned in Week 8 of high school football
October 20, 2018
Anyone have a spare quarter It's looking likely the WPIAL will need a coin flip to break a three-way tie for first place in the Class A Tri-County South. If head-to-head results, Gardner Points and the WPIAL's margin-of-victory formula can't break a tie, the deciding factor becomes chance. The WPIAL
WPIAL high school football rankings for week of Oct. 6, 2018
October 6, 2018
WPIAL football Class 6A 1. Pine-Richland, 6-1, 1 2. North Allegheny, 7-0, 2 3. Central Catholic, 5-2, 3 4. Seneca Valley, 5-2, 4 5. Mt. Lebanon, 3-4, 5 Out: none Class 5A 1. Gateway, 7-0, 1 2. Penn Hills, 7-0, 2 3. Peters Township, 5-2, 3 4. West Allegheny, 5-1,
Undefeated records add intensity to Aliquippa-Beaver Falls rivalry
September 21, 2018
Mike Warfield graduated from Aliquippa, played quarterback for the Quips and now is the football team's first-year coach. His wife is a Beaver Falls native
Five things we learned from Week 2 of high school football
September 8, 2018
Greg Perry's teams are known for throwing the football. In his time at Seton LaSalle, where he went from quarterbacks coach to offensive coordinator and
Title game rematches on tap in Week 2 of high school football
September 6, 2018
RJ Hart and his Imani Christian teammates have waited nearly 10 months for this week. They've craved a rematch with Jeannette ever since last year'sCentral Catholic uses ‘mean, nasty football’ to break Cathedral Prep’s 28-game wins streak
August 25, 2018
Central Catholic's offense ran the football 28 times in the second half Friday, mostly between the tackles, and its defense held strong on a crucial
North Allegheny decathlete Ayden Owens places 12th at IAAF World U20 Championship
July 12, 2018
Ayden Owens' international track debut didn't end with a medal Wednesday, but the decathlete did add his name to the IAAF record books. The recent
Class 5A football coaches approve of WPIAL’s choice for title game
June 25, 2018
Penn-Trafford football coach John Ruane and Gateway's Don Holl understand the atmosphere and excitement that come with Heinz Field. Their teams were there on opposite
Pennsylvania House of Representatives recognizes Vincentian baseball team
June 21, 2018
The state House of Representatives recognized Vincentian Academy's baseball team for its PIAA championship during a ceremony Thursday in Harrisburg. Speaker of the House Mike
WPIAL champion North Hills falls to Red Land in opening round of PIAA playoffs
June 4, 2018
Five days after celebrating a WPIAL baseball championship at Wild Things Park, North Hills' magical season ended on the same field. North Hills managed only
Knoch’s Jordan Geist headed to NCAAs in both shot put, discus
June 3, 2018
PIAA record-holder Jordan Geist, now a freshman thrower at Arizona, will compete for a national title in the shot put and discus this week at
Penn Hills’ Daivon Stephens signs with Eastern Michigan
May 12, 2018
Daivon Stephens, who led Penn Hills to a WPIAL Class 6A basketball title, signed Saturday with Eastern Michigan. Penn Hills announced the senior's decision on
Thomas Burns wins state football title in Pa., track title in Fla.
May 7, 2018
In the same school year, Thomas Burns won a state football title in Pennsylvania and a state track title in Florida. Burns, the brother of
Downpour creates ‘brutal’ 1,600 meters at Baldwin Invite
May 5, 2018
Mt. Lebanon's Patrick Anderson was leading the boys 1,600-meter race when the storm clouds let loose over the Baldwin Invitational. The rain was shockingly cold,
North Allegheny’s Ayden Owens breaks Dion Bentley’s decades-old record at Baldwin Invitational
Days like this are why Ayden Owens is a Southern Cal recruit. The North Allegheny senior dazzled Friday at the Baldwin Invitation by sweeping the
Tennis finals rematch among Friday’s 3 things to watch in high school sports
May 4, 2018
For the second season in a row, Peters Township's Connor Bruce and Fox Chapel's Robby Shymansky will battle in the WPIAL tennis finals. The two
Class AA boys team tennis tournament tops Friday’s WPIAL schedule
April 20, 2018
Sewickley Academy starts its quest for a 15th consecutive WPIAL Class AA championship when the boys team tennis tournament begins Friday with first-round matches. Sewickley
Quaker Valley’s offense struggles in PIAA semifinal loss to Sharon
March 20, 2018
For Quaker Valley, this was the kind of night where even a breakaway layup bounced off the side of the rim. Sharon quickly grabbed thatBaskets scarce as Franklin Regional edges Moon in WPIAL quarterfinals
February 23, 2018
Two free throws in the final 22 seconds by junior Nick Leopold accounted for Franklin Regional's entire offensive output for the fourth quarter. Somehow, those
Aliquippa school board votes to open position of football coach Mike Zmijanac
February 21, 2018
Mike Zmijanac listened quietly from the small auditorium's seats as a former player and several others asked the Aliquippa school board to let the hall
OLSH-Sewickley Academy rematch part of 3 things to watch Friday in WPIAL athletics
February 9, 2018
Two points separated Our Lady of the Sacred Heart and Sewickley Academy when the boys basketball teams met last month. OLSH won 70-68, breaking their
Allderdice, Canon-McMillan, Jeannette enter PIAA boys basketball rankings
January 29, 2018
A day after rising to No. 1 in the Trib's WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball rankings, Canon-McMillan earned a spot in the City of Basketball
Mt. Lebanon wideout Aidan Cain commits to William & Mary
January 27, 2018
When college recruiters visited Mt. Lebanon, football coach Mike Melnyk told them to keep their eyes on little-known Aidan Cain. The wideout had Division 1
Boys basketball section rematches are part of 3 things to watch Friday in WPIAL athletics
January 18, 2018
A number of boys basketball sections have reached the season's midway point, so it's time battle everybody again. Among Friday night's games is a section
Top-ranked Quaker Valley gets defensive to defeat No. 2 Ambridge
January 17, 2018
With Drexel recruit Coletrane Washington in the lineup, Quaker Valley can score with anybody in the WPIAL, so a 23-point quarter isn't all that unusual.Three top-ranked teams to compete at Mt. Lebanon
January 3, 2018
Three top-ranked WPIAL basketball teams will share a gym Saturday when Mt. Lebanon hosts andquot;The Challenge.andquot; The 10-team event features the top-ranked Mt. Lebanon boys
Bethel Park boys hold off Upper St. Clair rally in Section 2-6A clash
After a gritty 26-point effort, Bethel Park senior Justin Meis still surmised that he's probably not the best basketball player on the team or even
QB Phil Jurkovec shines as No. 1 Pine-Richland tops rival North Allegheny to reach WPIAL Class 6A final
November 11, 2017
The only accolade absent from Phil Jurkovec's resume, a sensational three-year span that already has him mentioned among the WPIAL greats, is a championship. He
High school football notebook: Rematches tough to avoid in WPIAL 1st round
November 1, 2017
Montour and New Castle tied for second in the Northwest Nine, but the WPIAL scheduled them head-to-head for the ultimate tiebreaker. The conference foes meet
California among top seeds for WPIAL football playoffs
October 30, 2017
The WPIAL football committee wasn't always kind to the Tri-County South Conference. So, California coach Darrin Dillow wasn't sure his undefeated Trojans would be aHarlan on recruiting: Joey Porter Jr. making a name for himself at NA
October 25, 2017
Joey Porter Jr. was born with one of the most recognizable names in the WPIAL, but the North Allegheny junior quickly is making a name
Gateway defense comes through in clutch to defeat McKeesport
October 21, 2017
As the clocked ticked away, as McKeesport was pushing downfield, as Gateway's lead started to feel temporary, Gators junior Jeremiah Josephs started thinking about last
5 things to watch in Week 8 of high school football: Teams control playoff destiny
October 19, 2017
Win and you're in. That's the mindset a number of WPIAL teams can embrace Friday night, knowing their playoff destinies are entirely in their own
Upper St. Clair upsets No. 1 West Allegheny in OT after failed 2-point conversion
October 7, 2017
Your luck finally ran out, Upper St. Clair's Jim Render told West Allegheny's Bob Palko with a lighthearted chuckle, as the two coaches embraced. Palko
Five things we learned from Week 4 of high school football
September 30, 2017
This wasn't quite David and Goliath, but Imani Christian coach Ronnell Heard considered Friday's win a godsend. andquot;I think Friday night was a moment in
Five things to watch in Week 5: Teams jockey for position in Big East Conference
September 28, 2017
That will become a little more clear after No. 3-ranked Gateway visits No. 2 Penn-Trafford on Friday night for a first-place matchup of undefeated teams.
5 things to watch in Week 4: Pine-Richland heads to Bethel Park for battle of unbeatens
September 21, 2017
Battle of the unbeatens Bethel Park has linemen with some size, an offense that controls the football and a defense that has allowed just four
Harlan on recruiting: East Allegheny TE Banks sets commitment date
August 30, 2017
East Allegheny senior TJ Banks decided this week to pick a Wednesday in mid-October as his commitment date, the day he'll announce which Division I
HS football position by position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks
August 12, 2017
The WPIAL had its first career 5,000-yard passer in 1993, when then-North Hills senior Eric Kasperowicz reached the lofty number. Now, the list is almost
2025 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Central Catholic’s Colsen Gatten
July 26, 2025
Colsen Gatten’s highlight video starts with a pick-six followed by a nifty one-handed interception a couple of clips later.
WPIAL grants Josh Pratt eligibility at Lincoln Park, yet basketball star must sit out playoffs
July 22, 2025
Josh Pratt, one of the top WPIAL basketball players, can join Lincoln Park on the court for his senior season, but he’s not eligible for the playoffs.
WPIAL rules Seton LaSalle QB Anthony Smith ineligible after transfer from Southmoreland
July 21, 2025
The WPIAL ruled Seton LaSalle transfer Anthony Smith ineligible, sidelining the up-and-coming quarterback for his sophomore season.
2025 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Central Catholic’s Jimmy Kalis
July 19, 2025
Jimmy Kalis is the 6-foot-7 son of a former NFL lineman. Recruiting websites rank him among the best tackles in the country, and he has college offers from most of the national championship favorites.
PIAA taking final steps in flag football journey
July 18, 2025
Eighty yards long. Forty yards wide.
PIAA board supports adding shot clock to high school basketball for 2028-29 season
July 16, 2025
The PIAA has endorsed adding a shot clock to Pennsylvania high school basketball, a move supported by a majority of WPIAL schools.
2 former WPIAL baseball players selected in 2025 MLB Draft
July 14, 2025
Two former WPIAL baseball players were selected Monday in the MLB Draft with one picked by his hometown team.
2025 Trib 25 Preseason Football All-Star Team: Central Catholic’s Ashton Blatt
July 11, 2025
Editor’s note: Each day through Aug. 3, Trib HSSN will profile one member of the 2025 Trib 25 preseason high school football all-star team.
Championship-winning Shaler baseball coach Brian Junker resigns after 3rd WPIAL title
July 10, 2025
Weeks after leading Shaler to a WPIAL baseball title, Brian Junker has resigned as coach after 16 years.
Double first-base bags coming to high school baseball for safety’s sake
July 8, 2025
No, you’re not seeing double.
Navy lands commitment from 3rd WPIAL football recruit in 2026 class
July 1, 2025
The Midshipmen landed a third WPIAL football recruit from the 2026 class when Avonworth lineman Peter Bonnet committed to Navy on Tuesday.
Thomas Jefferson’s Shep Turk named 2024-25 TribLive HSSN Boys Athlete of the Year
TribLive HSSN Boys Athlete of the Year
Quaker Valley’s Mimi Thiero named 2024-25 TribLive HSSN Girls Athlete of the Year
TribLive HSSN Girls Athlete of the Year
Trib HSSN’s top stories from the 2024-25 school year
June 28, 2025
Top high school sports stories from 2024-25
2025 TribLive HSSN Softball Player of the Year: Neshannock’s Addy Frye
June 26, 2025
TribLive HSSN Softball Player of the Year
2025 TribLive HSSN Baseball Player of the Year: Riverside’s Zach Hare
TribLive HSSN Baseball Player of the Year
WPIAL notebook: Eligibility for former Southmoreland QB Anthony Smith on hold for now
June 25, 2025
Former Southmoreland quarterback Anthony Smith, a transfer to Seton LaSalle, must wait a month to learn his eligibility for the fall.
Pine-Richland’s Jay Timmons flips commitment to Florida State, father’s alma mater
June 24, 2025
Another Timmons is headed to Florida State.
West Virginia lands commitment from Bishop Canevin linebacker Minikon Johnson
Bishop Canevin outside linebacker Minikon Johnson committed to West Virginia on Tuesday, choosing the Mountaineers less than two weeks after getting his first college offers.
2025 TribLive HSSN Terrific 10 Softball All-Stars
Here’s a look at the TribLive HSSN softball all-stars for the 2025 season.
2025 TribLive HSSN Terrific 10 Baseball All-Stars
Here’s a look at the TribLive HSSN baseball all-stars for the 2025 season.
Steel Valley defensive back Da’Ron Barksdale commits to Pitt
June 23, 2025
Steel Valley defensive back Da’Ron “Daedae” Barksdale has committed to Pitt, giving the Panthers another WPIAL recruit in the 2026 class.
Woodland Hills linebacker Ziggy Moore commits to N.C. State
June 22, 2025
Woodland Hills linebacker Zykir “Ziggy” Moore committed to N.C. State on Saturday, choosing the Wolfpack from a list of nearly two dozen college football offers.
‘When, not if’: Timing a factor as PIAA basketball committee votes down shot clock proposal
June 18, 2025
For some, the debate about adding shot clocks to Pennsylvania high school basketball is more about “when” rather than “if.”
Spencer Lee, football legends, girls basketball scoring sensations headline WPIAL Hall of Fame class
June 6, 2025
When Spencer Lee first heard he was chosen for the WPIAL Hall of Fame, the former Franklin Regional wrestler felt too young for the honor.
State champion football coach Rod Steele joins Bishop Canevin
June 5, 2025
Title-winning football coach Rod Steele, who celebrated a state championship at Steel Valley, is the new coach at Bishop Canevin.
Nick Lackovich remains ousted as Aliquippa boys basketball coach — at least for now
June 2, 2025
Nick Lackovich remains out of a job as Aliquippa boys basketball coach — at least for now — despite winning a school board vote to bring him back.
South Fayette pass rusher Anthony Charles commits to Minnesota
June 1, 2025
South Fayette defensive end Anthony Charles committed Sunday to Minnesota, choosing the Golden Gophers over several other Big Ten options.
‘One foot in front of the other’: Canon-McMillan football coach Mike Evans on leave amid 2nd battle with cancer
May 31, 2025
Mike Evans felt a 15-inch needle stab into his liver three times to biopsy a cancerous tumor. The Canon-McMillan football coach also endured chemotherapy for weeks and recently battled a case of pneumonia.
Hare Medal: Riverside pitcher throws perfect game vs. Quaker Valley in WPIAL 3A championship game
May 28, 2025
Zach Hare was chasing a WPIAL title, while also knowing that folks were marveling at his no-hit streak.
Rain forces WPIAL to postpone softball championship games to Thursday
Wet weather forced the WPIAL to postpone Wednesday’s scheduled softball championships by a day and move them away from Cal (Pa.).
After aces duel to draw, Shaler downs Pine-Richland in 8 innings to win WPIAL 5A crown
May 27, 2025
Shaler’s Colby Weber and Pine-Richland’s Keegan Deihl waged a pitchers’ duel in the WPIAL finals, but this one was decided only after the two aces ran out of pitches.
2025 WPIAL Class A baseball championship breakdown: Serra Catholic vs. Carmichaels
WPIAL Class A baseball final
2025 WPIAL Class 3A baseball championship breakdown: Riverside vs. Quaker Valley
WPIAL Class 3A baseball final
2025 WPIAL Class 2A baseball championship breakdown: OLSH vs. Freedom
WPIAL Class 2A baseball final
2025 WPIAL Class 6A baseball championship breakdown: Seneca Valley vs. Norwin
May 26, 2025
WPIAL Class 6A baseball final
2025 WPIAL Class 5A baseball championship breakdown: Pine-Richland vs. Shaler
WPIAL Class 5A baseball final
WPIAL announces schedule for 2025 softball finals, 3rd-place games
May 24, 2025
The WPIAL announced start times for the six softball finals Wednesday and Thursday at PennWest’s Lilley Field in California.
WPIAL sets schedule for 2025 baseball championships, 3rd-place games
The WPIAL announced times for its six baseball championship games Tuesday and Wednesday at EQT Park in Washington.
Riverside outlasts South Park in epic 12-inning pitchers’ duel in Class 3A semifinals
May 23, 2025
There were moments in Friday’s semifinal when Riverside coach Dan Oliastro and his players wondered if either team would ever score. The scoreboard ran out of innings, and they were all full of zeroes.
WPIAL postpones baseball, softball semifinals to Friday
May 22, 2025
For the second day in a row, the WPIAL postponed its baseball and softball playoffs because of rain.
PIAA track preview: Quaker Valley athletes seeded 1st in 6 state championship events
Here are storylines to follow when the PIAA track and field individual championships are held Friday and Saturday at Shippensburg University.
Aliquippa ousts 2-time state champion Nick Lackovich as boys basketball coach
Aliquippa boys basketball coach Nick Lackovich was holding an open gym Wednesday, unaware that the school board gathered nearby was voting him out.
Inclement weather leads WPIAL to postpone baseball, softball, lacrosse games scheduled Wednesday
May 21, 2025
An unfavorable weather forecast led the WPIAL to postpone all baseball, softball and lacrosse games scheduled for Wednesday.
Riverside’s Zach Hare no-hits Burrell as short-handed Panthers advance to Class 3A semis
May 20, 2025
It takes more than rain to mess up Riverside’s Hare.
Swinging bunt helps Norwin rally past Butler and into Class 6A semifinals
May 19, 2025
Norwin celebrated a walk-off win in nine innings thanks to a swinging bunt that rolled only a few feet.
Transgender girl from Eastern Pa. fails to qualify for PIAA track and field championships
May 17, 2025
A transgender high school student from Eastern Pennsylvania authorized by a judge to compete in girls track did not qualify for the state championships.
H.S. notebook: PIAA survey on shot clocks will be ‘good litmus test’ for hotly debated topic
May 16, 2025
Shot clocks or no shot clocks?
Johnstown arena to host PIAA team wrestling, competitive spirit championships from 2026-28
State champions in team wrestling and competitive spirit will be crowned in Johnstown for the next three years.
Transgender girl can qualify for state track championships, PIAA says, citing judge’s order
The PIAA will let a transgender girl compete in the state track and field championships next week if the Eastern Pennsylvania student qualifies, the PIAA’s top administrator said Friday.
Waynesburg’s Tyler Groves settles in after rocky start, shuts down Freeport in Class 3A
May 15, 2025
Waynesburg pitcher Tyler Groves gave up a triple, a double and a single to consecutive batters in the first inning Thursday night, but that wasn’t a sign of things to come.
Mohawk distance runner Jaxon Schoedel, other record-breakers live up to hype at WPIAL meet
Mohawk’s Jaxon Schoedel’s teammate turned into his hype man at the WPIAL track championships, shouting his name as the senior climbed atop the medals stand for the second time.
Laurel sprinter Tori Atkins makes history with unprecedented WPIAL 4-peat
May 14, 2025
The drawstring in Tori Atkins’ warmup pants was maybe the toughest opponent the Laurel sprinter faced in her four years at the WPIAL track championships.
WPIAL track preview: Laurel sprinter could make history with ‘quadruple-double’
Record breakers, repeat winners and rain?
WPIAL postpones Tuesday’s baseball, softball games; some quarterfinal sites announced
May 13, 2025
The WPIAL has moved all of Tuesday’s baseball and softball playoff games to Thursday because of rain.
WPIAL delays decision about Moon basketball transfers’ eligibility
May 12, 2025
The basketball eligibility of Moon transfers Jackson and Brody Bauman won’t be decided until next month.
WPIAL announces pairings for 2025 baseball playoffs
North Allegheny was the only defending champion to draw a No. 1 seed Friday when the WPIAL released brackets for the upcoming baseball playoffs.
2025 WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel forecast the baseball playoff pairings
The 2025 WPIAL baseball playoffs are set with 80 teams, including five of the six champions from a year ago — North Allegheny, Penn-Trafford, Avonworth, Seton LaSalle and Bishop Canevin — hoping to defend their crowns.
WPIAL reveals brackets for 2025 softball playoffs
May 8, 2025
Reigning WPIAL softball champions Neshannock and Elizabeth Forward start their title defenses as favorites to repeat.
Mt. Lebanon, South Fayette draw top seeds in 2025 WPIAL boys lacrosse playoffs
Two-time reigning boys lacrosse champion Mt. Lebanon will start its latest title defense as the No. 1 seed in the WPIAL playoffs.
Mars, Pine-Richland earn No. 1 seeds in 2025 WPIAL girls lacrosse playoffs
Two-time defending champion Mars was picked as the favorite to win another WPIAL girls lacrosse title in playoff brackets revealed Thursday.
Norwin takes home 2 trophies from WPIAL 3A team track and field championships
May 6, 2025
The Norwin boys hadn’t won a WPIAL team track title in almost 50 years, but senior hurdler Ryan Schiller had hungered for one for months.
Texas Tech recruit Greg Minnick, battalion of live arms have Indiana primed for playoffs
Indiana pitcher Greg Minnick was offered a chance to see the red rocks of West Texas while in geology class last spring.
WPIAL puts 19 on all-state boys basketball teams
May 4, 2025
The WPIAL had 19 boys basketball players earn all-state honors Sunday, and two were voted as the player of the year for their PIAA classifications.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending May 4, 2025
Class 6A
Not just a ‘Single-A’ athlete: California long jumper Lee Qualk clears 23 feet for Baldwin Invite gold
California’s Lee Qualk rushed for 383 yards in a football game last fall, and on Friday posted another extraordinary number when he long jumped more than 23 feet.
As Baldwin Invite’s meet director, Rich Wright strives to honor late coach Ed Helbig
On the night before the Baldwin Invitational, track coach Rich Wright talked with longtime friend Ed Helbig on the drive home from the stadium. The two Baldwin coaches had run the event for years as a terrific tandem.
Forgot about Scoop? Woodland Hills sprinter reintroduces himself at Baldwin Invitational
Scoop Smith is confident he’s still the fastest man in the WPIAL, even if the speedy Woodland Hills junior hadn’t had a chance to show everybody lately.
Lincoln Park freshman basketball player Damar Johnson recovering after drive-by shooting
May 1, 2025
Lincoln Park boys basketball coach Mike Bariski said he couldn’t imagine anyone wanting to hurt Damar Johnson, a freshman standout who was shot in the arm Wednesday night in Farrell.
Clutch outing from pitcher Carson Franc delivers section title to Avonworth
April 30, 2025
An 0.68 ERA is proof that Avonworth pitcher Carson Franc has had other great outings, but his coach called this one his best yet.
WPIAL postpones team track semifinals to Wednesday
April 29, 2025
The WPIAL has postponed the team track and field semifinals to Wednesday because of unfavorable weather Tuesday.
Pine-Richland defensive back Jay Timmons commits to Indiana, coach Curt Cignetti
April 28, 2025
Pine-Richland junior Jay Timmons committed Monday to play football for Indiana and coach Curt Cignetti, who’s already familiar with Western Pennsylvania.
Stanford lands commitment from Lucas Shanafelt, 2nd football recruit from Peters Township in 2 years
April 27, 2025
Western Pennsylvania seems like unusual recruiting territory for a West Coast college, but ACC newcomer Stanford is fond of one South Hills school district.
Streak ends: NFL Draft includes no WPIAL players for 1st time since 1993
A WPIAL streak that started more than three decades ago ended quietly Saturday.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 27, 2025
Class 6A
Belle Vernon’s Zion Moore to play for top junior college program
April 25, 2025
Belle Vernon senior Zion Moore, one of the WPIAL’s top basketball players, has committed to Harcum College in suburban Philadelphia.
Hot-hitting North Allegheny uses 7-run inning to take section series from rival Seneca Valley
JJ Mancuso offered up a simple explanation for how North Allegheny suddenly scored 17 runs in two days, snapping a string of light-hitting losses.
Pine-Richland puts pressure on Shaler, wins opener of key section series
April 22, 2025
The foul poles on Pine-Richland’s baseball field stand 360 feet from home plate — deeper than those at PNC Park — so there’s a lot of outfield grass to cover.
Pine-Richland hires former college assistant, top WPIAL scorer as boys basketball coach
Steve McNees, a former college assistant who ranks among the WPIAL’s all-time leading scorers, was hired Monday as Pine-Richland’s boys basketball coach.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 20, 2025
Class 6A
Knoch’s Fennell shines at Butler Invitational track meet
April 17, 2025
Knoch’s Kara Fennell has tumbled and flipped since she was about 3 years old, a lifelong gymnast whose skills are worthy of medals.
Veteran coach Daryn Freedman takes Ambridge boys basketball job, likes program’s potential
The standings paint the Ambridge boys as a distressed basketball team: only seven section wins in four years and none this winter.
WPIAL elects 2 newcomers to board of directors for 2025-26 school year
April 16, 2025
The WPIAL board of directors already has two new members for next school year.
PIAA survey asks: Should high school basketball have a shot clock?
Reset the clock on the shot clock debate.
PIAA administrator cautions WPIAL schools after Justice Department sues Maine over transgender policy
A few hours after the Justice Department said it was suing Maine over its transgender athlete policy, PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi cautioned WPIAL schools to discuss the topic with their solicitors.
WPIAL announces 2025 James Collins Scholar-Athlete Award winners
The WPIAL announced the 20 winners of its annual James Collins Scholar-Athlete Award, with each receiving a $1,000 scholarship.
Former East Allegheny football coach plans fundraising dinner for grad needing kidney transplant
April 15, 2025
Dom Pecora knows football, but the former East Allegheny coach also has a knack for food as a restaurateur.
Freshman pitcher keeps grip in soggy conditions, keys victory over Deer Lakes
Gray clouds filled the sky, temperatures slid into the 40s and rain was falling sideways.
Former WPIAL executive director Larry Hanley dies
April 14, 2025
Larry Hanley, who served a nine-year stint as executive director of the WPIAL, died Saturday. He was 83.
WPIAL softball rankings: Week ending April 13, 2025
Class 6A
Gamble pays off as Colby Weber sparks Shaler to rare 2-game sweep of West Allegheny
April 9, 2025
Shaler ace Colby Weber left the mound Monday after throwing only 19 pitches, a strategic gamble by his coach that paid off handsomely two days later.
Quaker Valley graduate Adou Thiero declares for NBA Draft after junior season at Arkansas
April 8, 2025
Quaker Valley graduate Adou Thiero, who emerged as a double-digit scorer for Arkansas, has declared for the NBA Draft.
Aliquippa linebacker Daiveon Taylor commits to Kent State
Aliquippa linebacker Daiveon Taylor committed to Kent State on Monday, completing a recruiting journey that saw him first pick West Virginia.
WPIAL baseball rankings, week ending April 6, 2025
Class 6A
Knoch boys basketball coach steps down after state playoff season
April 4, 2025
Knoch boys basketball coach Alan Bauman has resigned after leading the Knights to the state playoffs this winter.
Aliquippa to host ‘CJ2K vs. World’ charity basketball games Saturday
Aliquippa will host a charity basketball event Saturday featuring high school players from around Western Pennsylvania.
Peters Township’s Natalie Wetzel named 2025 Trib HSSN Girls Basketball Player of the Year
Peters Township’s Natalie Wetzel averaged nearly a double-double this winter for a WPIAL champion, showing off basketball skills that filled stat sheets.
Neighborhood Academy’s Courtney Wallace named 2025 Trib HSSN Boys Basketball Player of the Year
The way Courtney Wallace played this winter was beyond words, said Neighborhood Academy coach Jordan Marks, adding simply: “You’ve got to see it to believe it.”
New football coach T.J. Wiley believes he has found perfect fit at Knoch
April 3, 2025
Knoch ended last football season with fewer than 30 players, an issue new coach T.J. Wiley wants to tackle right away.
2025 Trib HSSN Terrific 10 Boys Basketball All-Stars
Terrific 10
2025 Trib HSSN Terrific 10 Girls Basketball All-Stars
Terrific 10
4 WPIAL basketball players chosen for new PIAA all-championship team honor
March 31, 2025
Four WPIAL basketball players were among 24 student-athletes chosen for the first-ever PIAA Hoopsfest All-Championship Teams.
Baldwin baseball coach faces suspension after WPIAL board says team violated PIAA rule
Baldwin must suspend its baseball coach three games for violating a PIAA rule about open gyms or the team won’t be eligible for the playoffs this season, the WPIAL announced Monday.
South Fayette dethrones 4-time champs to win program’s 1st state title
March 29, 2025
HERSHEY — Archbishop Wood’s reign is over.
Philadelphia’s West Catholic rallies back to defeat South Allegheny in PIAA Class 3A final
HERSHEY – South Allegheny’s Drew Cook tried to stay even-keeled in the state finals, but he and his teammates found out that’s hard to do with a 14-point lead.
2025 PIAA Class 5A girls basketball championship breakdown: South Fayette vs. Archbishop Wood
PIAA Class 5A girls basketball final
2025 PIAA Class 3A boys basketball championship breakdown: South Allegheny vs. West Catholic
PIAA Class 3A boys basketball final
Upper St. Clair goes cold against powerful Perkiomen Valley in era-ending state final
March 28, 2025
HERSHEY — The outcome was decided long before the clock reached zeroes, but Upper St. Clair coach Pete Serio insisted the lopsided score couldn’t drain the emotion out of Friday’s loss.
Sewickley Academy misses last-second shot in 1-point PIAA finals loss to Linville Hill
HERSHEY – Two seconds were almost enough.
2025 PIAA Class 6A girls basketball championship breakdown: Upper St. Clair vs. Perkiomen Valley
PIAA Class 6A girls basketball final
2025 PIAA Class 2A boys basketball championship breakdown: Sewickley Academy vs. Linville Hill
PIAA Class 2A boys basketball final
Loyalsock’s inside-outside duo too much for Shady Side Academy in state title game
March 27, 2025
Shady Side Academy had a one-point lead after halftime, but the Bulldogs couldn’t find a way to contain Loyalsock Township’s two big scorers.
Neighborhood Academy makes winning late-game stand in PIAA Class A final
HERSHEY — Shamar Simpson missed his first five shots from beyond the arc, but his sixth was golden.
Reaching PIAA finals has extra meaning for coach Mike Iuzzolino, Sewickley Academy boys
As an all-state basketball player at Altoona, Mike Iuzzolino made a deep run in the state playoffs as a junior in 1985. His team was undefeated until a crushing semifinal loss to Brashear.
2025 PIAA Class 3A girls basketball championship breakdown: Shady Side Academy vs. Loyalsock Township
March 26, 2025
PIAA Class 3A girls basketball final
2025 PIAA Class A boys basketball championship breakdown: Neighborhood Academy vs. Sankofa Freedom
PIAA Class A boys basketball final
‘The best story nobody has talked much about:’ Neighborhood Academy, Courtney Wallace Jr. storm into state finals
As a future Ivy League finance major, it’s safe to say Courtney Wallace Jr. is good with numbers.
Imani Christian’s David Davis commits to Penn State
March 25, 2025
Imani Christian is among the WPIAL’s smallest schools, but Penn State has landed a big football recruit from there two years in a row.
In WPIAL hearing, Baldwin seeks clarity on ‘very gray’ PIAA rule banning preseason workouts
March 24, 2025
Holding a preseason workout with a baseball team from another school was a mistake, Baldwin’s representatives said at a WPIAL hearing Monday, but they also questioned whether a PIAA rule was too vaguely written.
South Fayette avenges loss to Peters Township, earns trip to state finals
March 22, 2025
The South Fayette girls are headed to the state finals after avenging a WPIAL finals loss to Peters Township.
South Allegheny sparks another late rally, stuns Aliquippa again in PIAA semifinal
Aliquippa surely felt some déjà vu.
Chartiers Valley’s playoff run ends with bitter loss to Hershey in PIAA semifinals
March 21, 2025
CLEARFIELD – Chartiers Valley’s mission was written across the chest of its opponent: Hershey.
Valley collects 14 hits in ‘backyard brawl’ baseball win over rival Burrell
March 19, 2025
The teams don’t share a section anymore, but Valley’s Dante Taliani said he and his teammates get just as excited for any baseball game with Burrell.
WPIAL says baseball, softball teams violated PIAA rules with preseason workouts
March 17, 2025
A PIAA rule about open gyms has tripped up some WPIAL baseball and softball teams this spring.
Tyler Robbins, Upper St. Clair fight off McDowell in overtime, move on to PIAA semifinals
March 15, 2025
Nothing came easy for Upper St. Clair or senior Tyler Robbins, who was roughed up by McDowell’s defense for four quarters and nearly all of overtime.
Chartiers Valley exploits Johnstown’s ‘rough’ shooting night, charges into PIAA semifinals
Chartiers Valley likes to counterpunch whenever an opponent’s shot misses, and Johnstown gave the Colts plenty of chances Friday night.
McKeesport hires WPIAL champion Dan DeRose as boys basketball coach
March 13, 2025
The McKeesport boys basketball team hasn’t won a WPIAL title in a few decades, but the Tigers hired a new coach with one already on his resume.
South Allegheny works game plan to perfection in 2nd-round win over Bishop Guilfoyle
March 12, 2025
South Allegheny’s Josh Jackowski circled into the lane, caught an inbounds pass and scored on a nifty play the team debuted Wednesday night.
Chartiers Valley celebrates another postseason win over section rival Montour in PIAA playoffs
In celebration, Chartiers Valley’s Jayden Davis let go of a half-court shot at the buzzer and it went in.
PIAA declares Uniontown vs. Meadville fight-marred playoff game a double forfeit
March 10, 2025
Neither Uniontown nor Meadville will advance in the PIAA boys basketball playoffs.
Driven by WPIAL finals loss, Aliquippa dominates in PIAA 1st-round win
March 8, 2025
Aliquippa had an entire week to fix what went wrong in the WPIAL finals, which was bad news for Westmont Hilltop.
Fight halts Uniontown vs. Meadville boys basketball game in PIAA playoffs
Officials cut short a state playoff game between the Uniontown and Meadville boys basketball teams Friday night after a fight in the stands spread onto the court.
Montour takes care of business in PIAA 1st round, sets up rematch with Chartiers Valley
March 7, 2025
The only trap Friday night was the defense Montour sprung on its opponent.
Nationally ranked West Mifflin running back Armand Hill commits to West Virginia
West Mifflin’s Armand Hill, a nationally ranked running back recruit, committed Friday to West Virginia.
PIAA faces criticism from all sides after changing transgender athlete policy
March 6, 2025
The PIAA is drawing criticism from all sides for changes made to its transgender athlete policy.
Chartiers Valley beats Peters Township to cap breakthrough season with WPIAL title
March 1, 2025
Chartiers Valley went from being a basketball program in turmoil to a WPIAL champion in a little over a year.
2025 WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball championship: Aliquippa vs. South Allegheny
February 28, 2025
WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball championship
2025 WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship breakdown: Chartiers Valley vs. Peters Township
WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship
Belle Vernon rewards retiring coach with school’s 1st WPIAL title since 1978
February 27, 2025
A retirement party at Petersen Events Center for one of the WPIAL’s winningest boys basketball coaches might seem a bit outlandish. Yet three weeks after Joe Salvino shared his retirement plans, he and his Belle Vernon players were there to celebrate.
2025 WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball championship breakdown: Upper St. Clair vs. New Castle
WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball final
2025 WPIAL Class A boys basketball championship breakdown: Neighborhood Academy vs. Serra Catholic
February 26, 2025
WPIAL Class A boys basketball championship
Resurgent New Castle drops Mt. Lebanon to return to Class 6A title game
February 25, 2025
While celebrating a WPIAL semifinal win Monday night, New Castle’s Ralphie Blundo thought back to this time last year, when he and his teammates were already done for the winter.
North Catholic turns in masterful performance in Class 4A semifinal win over Beaver
February 22, 2025
In a nearly 30-point win, North Catholic’s Jason Fredericks heard his coach keep urging him and his teammates to master the moment.
Offensively gifted Chartiers Valley leans on defense in WPIAL 5A quarterfinal victory over Moon
Chartiers Valley has a talented 2,000-point scorer in Jayden Davis, and the Colts have often shown a knack for beating teams on the offensive end of the floor.
WPIAL sets semifinal sites, times for 2025 basketball playoffs
February 21, 2025
The WPIAL has set semifinal sites and times for all 24 basketball semifinals.
23 WPIAL, City League football players picked for 2025 Big School East-West Game
Five offensive and five defensive linemen were among the 23 WPIAL and City League football players selected for the 2025 PSFCA Big School East-West Game this spring.
Central Catholic finds spark in 4th quarter to win defensive struggle with Fox Chapel
February 20, 2025
Central Catholic and Fox Chapel combined for five points in the first 5 minutes Thursday night, hinting at the struggle between two of the WPIAL best big-school defenses.
PIAA eliminates transgender athlete policy, changes language to comply with Trump’s executive order
The PIAA eliminated its one-sentence transgender athlete policy and changed language in its handbook to no longer ask member schools to determine those students’ “gender” but rather their “sex.”
West Mifflin poised to hire former assistant B.J. Pugh as football coach
B.J. Pugh, a former West Mifflin quarterback and current teacher in the district, is expected to be hired Thursday as football coach at his alma mater.
17 WPIAL football all-stars chosen for 2025 Small School East-West Game
WPIAL title-winning South Park teammates Eric Doerue, Troy Cunningham and Kenyan Brown were among 17 WPIAL football players chosen to compete in the PSFCA Small School East-West Game this spring.
Avonworth boys hold off Knoch in WPIAL Class 4A quarterfinals
February 19, 2025
Avonworth maybe didn’t win the game in the first 5 minutes, but its hot start Wednesday night certainly shaped the final three quarters.
Liam Sheely overcomes shoulder injury with coach’s help as Mt. Lebanon makes late-season surge
February 18, 2025
Liam Sheely’s basketball coach is also a physical therapist, a combination that surely helped Mt. Lebanon’s leading scorer get back on the court this week.
Mt. Lebanon boys win rubber match with Norwin, advance to WPIAL Class 6A quarters
February 17, 2025
Mt. Lebanon’s Sam Deibert scored a game-high 24 points as the sixth-seeded Blue Devils ran away with 61-34 victory over No. 11 Norwin in a first-round rubber match Monday night in the WPIAL Class 6A playoffs.
‘It’s nice for us to be No. 1’: 50 years later, coach, players recall Richland baseball’s 1st section title
February 15, 2025
Whenever Rick Frederick visits the Pine-Richland gym nowadays, he admires the baseball banner hanging on the wall, the one that lists 18 section titles.
12 WPIAL all-stars chosen for 2025 Big 33 Football Classic
February 14, 2025
Five offensive or defensive linemen were among a dozen WPIAL players chosen Friday to represent Pennsylvania in the Big 33 Football Classic this spring.
Rod Steele won’t return as West Mifflin football coach
February 13, 2025
West Mifflin intends to hire a football coach next week, but it won’t be incumbent Rod Steele.
Two-time champ Deer Lakes shows its playoff experience in beating Quaker Valley
Deer Lakes is still unbeaten in the WPIAL playoffs under coach Albie Fletcher, a remarkable three-year streak that added another win Friday night.
WPIAL breaks unwritten rule about 1st-round rematches in basketball playoffs
February 11, 2025
Some WPIAL basketball teams won’t need to scout their playoff opponent much.
Breaking down the 2025 WPIAL boys basketball playoff brackets
February 10, 2025
Breaking down the 2025 WPIAL boys basketball playoffs
No time to waste for 3-time champion South Fayette as WPIAL reveals basketball playoff brackets
South Fayette girls basketball coach Bryan Bennett was surprised by what he saw when the WPIAL released playoff brackets Monday.
WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel forecast the 2025 boys basketball playoff pairings
February 9, 2025
The 2025 boys basketball playoff field is set with 85 teams in the six classifications.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast the 2025 girls basketball playoff pairings
The 2025 girls basketball playoff field is set with 84 teams in six classifications.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 9, 2025
Class 6A
Brady Mayo scores 45, Beaver outlasts Avonworth in OT to share section title
Brady Mayo found a way to let his coach know he wasn’t feeling stressed, even surrounded by a standing-room crowd in a nail-biting atmosphere that ultimately needed overtime.
PIAA to follow Trump’s order barring transgender athletes from girls sports
February 6, 2025
The PIAA, which has allowed transgender high school athletes to compete in its state championships, will heed a presidential executive order barring them from women’s and girls sports.
Imani Christian’s R.J. Sledge celebrates senior night with OT winner vs. Central Catholic
This was for second place in the section and maybe a much better seed in the playoffs, but Imani Christian’s R.J. Sledge felt another strong motivation, too.
Western Pa.’s top football prospects for the Class of 2026
February 5, 2025
The Class of 2026 is on the clock.
North Catholic takes control of section race with frantic, 1-point win over Knoch
February 4, 2025
The WPIAL’s tightest section race remains so thanks to a game that couldn’t get much closer.
Seneca Valley hires former NFL lineman as football coach
February 3, 2025
Former NFL offensive lineman Don Barclay, who was an all-conference athlete at Seneca Valley, is returning to his high school alma mater as football coach.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 2, 2024
Class 6A
Shady Side Academy hires former team captain as football coach
January 31, 2025
Shady Side Academy graduate Andrew Geisler, who served as Thiel’s defensive coordinator last season, is returning to his high school alma mater as football coach.
Baldwin avenges loss to South Fayette, nears 1st section title since 1986
January 29, 2025
The boys basketball banner that lists section titles was conspicuously missing from Baldwin’s gym, moved instead to the locker room at coach Jeff Ackermann’s request.
Former WPIAL standout Meleek Thomas chosen for McDonald’s All American Game
January 28, 2025
Former WPIAL basketball player Meleek Thomas, who transferred out of state for his senior year, was chosen Monday for the McDonald’s All American Game.
Belle Vernon hits glass to beat Knoch in matchup of Class 4A contenders
January 25, 2025
Belle Vernon missed its share of shots after halftime Saturday, but somehow those misses kept finding their way into the basket.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 26, 2024
Class 6A
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 26, 2024
Class 6A
Zach Pollaro’s buzzer-beater in overtime lifts North Hills over No. 2 Seneca Valley
Zach Pollaro practices bank shots from spots all around North Hills’ gym, so bouncing in a 3-pointer off the glass might feel almost routine at times.
PIAA board expands girls volleyball to 6 classes, votes on competitive-balance rule changes
January 24, 2025
The PIAA will expand girls volleyball to six classifications starting in 2026.
Aliquippa players, coach suspended for in-game altercation ahead of section game vs. Freedom
“A travesty of justice” was how Aliquippa boys basketball coach Nick Lackovich described the situation his short-handed team will face Friday night.
Burrell hires former Highlands coach to lead football program
January 23, 2025
Burrell’s new football playbook might borrow some ideas from the Kansas City Chiefs.
Straight shooter sparks Montour to section win over Chartiers Valley
January 22, 2025
Montour’s Colton Straight had a first quarter to remember, yet his buzzer-beater after halftime was the shot Chartiers Valley surely won’t forget.
5 WPIAL quarterbacks named as finalists for Willie Thrower Award
January 21, 2025
The WPIAL’s leading passer, two district champions and a quarterback with more than 6,000 career yards were among the finalists revealed Tuesday for the Willie Thrower Award.
Game between reigning state champs Aliquippa, Imani Christian called off after skirmish
January 19, 2025
A WPIAL boys basketball game between two reigning state champions was cut short Saturday after spectators ran onto the floor during an on-court skirmish.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 19, 2024
Class 6A
‘Little’ brother Ryan Robbins sparks top-ranked Upper St. Clair’s win over Central Catholic
Ryan Robbins may be known around Upper St. Clair as Tyler’s little brother, but there was nothing small about the 6-foot-7 sophomore’s game on Friday night.
WPIAL puts Imani Christian basketball on probation, finds no recruiting violation
January 17, 2025
The WPIAL has put the Imani Christian boys basketball program on probation for one year for “lack of institutional oversight,” the result of a three-month investigation by the league.
Peters Township boys golf coach David Kuhn receives NFHS Coach of the Year award
January 16, 2025
Peters Township boys golf coach David Kuhn, a six-time WPIAL champion in his 25 seasons, has received a national coach of the year award for the 2023-24 school year.
NFL greats Russ Grimm, Ty Law, Olympian Spencer Lee headline 2025 WPIAL Hall of Fame class
January 15, 2025
It’s no surprise that Southmoreland’s Russ Grimm was a good high school football player, but the position he played might astound some.
Montour takes Moon’s best shot in OT thriller
As a top-ranked team with lofty expectations, the stretch run this winter will be anything but dull, Montour coach Bill Minear told his players.
Chartiers Valley hires college assistant as football coach
January 14, 2025
Chartiers Valley hired a college assistant as its next football coach.
WPIAL holds hearing on possible Imani Christian recruiting violations
January 13, 2025
The WPIAL has wrapped up an investigation into possible recruiting violations by the Imani Christian basketball program with a decision pending.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 12, 2024
Class 6A
New Castle boys dominate 2nd half, hand Fox Chapel 1st section loss of season
January 10, 2025
The scoreboard had a tied score at half, yet the game ended under the mercy rule.
Steelers nominate Avonworth football coach Duke Johncour for 2024 Don Shula Award
January 8, 2025
The Pittsburgh Steelers have nominated Avonworth football coach Duke Johncour to represent Western Pennsylvania as one of 32 candidates for the 2024 Don Shula High School Coach of the Year Award.
Reigning WPIAL champion Upper St. Clair routs 6A newcomer Imani Christian, enacts mercy rule
January 7, 2025
The reigning WPIAL champions gave the brazen newcomers a rather unfriendly welcome to Class 6A.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 5, 2024
Class 6A
Avonworth’s Rowan Carmichael puts on a show in Quaker Valley’s friendly confines
Avonworth’s Rowan Carmichael can make a basketball court seem small with long 3-pointers.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 28, 2024
Class 6A
PIAA must pay Aliquippa’s legal fees from Commonwealth Court appeal, judge says
December 24, 2024
The PIAA must pay the legal fees accrued this summer by Aliquippa School District related to an unsuccessful appeal filed by the athletic association.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 22, 2024
Class 6A
2024 TribLive HSSN Terrific 25 Football All-Stars
December 20, 2024
Here’s a look at the TribLive High School Sports Network’s Terrific 25 football all-stars for the 2024 season.
After leading Latrobe’s football resurgence, coach Ron Prady steps down
December 19, 2024
Latrobe could count only one WPIAL playoff win in team history before Ron Prady arrived as football coach three years ago.
Trib HSSN 2024 WPIAL Football Player of the Year: Fort Cherry’s Matt Sieg
December 18, 2024
2024 Trib HSSN Football Player of the Year
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Eastern
December 15, 2024
2024 Eastern All-Conference
2024 All-City League Football Team
All-City League Football Team
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Tri-County South
2024 Tri-County South All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Black Hills
2024 Black Hills All-Conference
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 15, 2024
Class 6A
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 15, 2024
Class 6A
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Century
2024 Century All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Midwestern
2024 Midwestern All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Allegheny
2024 Allegheny All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Allegheny 7
2024 Allegheny 7 All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Interstate
2024 Interstate All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Western Hills
2024 Western Hills All-Conference
Championship coach Gene Matsook steps away after 39 years at Rochester
Gene Matsook was hesitant to take the Rochester job when his brother resigned, unsure at first whether he wanted to run the football program himself.
2024 WPIAL and City League all-conference football teams
December 13, 2024
After the dust has settled and the championships have been won, area high school football coaches take the time to identify the top performers in 17 WPIAL conferences as well as the City League. Here is a list of those teams:
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Parkway
2024 Parkway All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Big Six
2024 Big Six All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Greater Allegheny
2024 Greater Allegheny All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Allegheny Six
2024 Allegheny Six All-Conference
2024 WPIAL Football All-Conference: Northeast
2024 Northeast All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Big East
2024 Big East All-Conference
2024 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Class 6A
2024 WPIAL Class 6A All-Conference
St. Joseph’s Prep overpowers Central Catholic to win 3rd straight state title
December 7, 2024
MECHANICSBURG — Khyan Billups isn’t the St. Joseph’s Prep running back bound for Ohio State, but the junior might’ve fooled anyone watching him Saturday night.
Gut-wrenching overtime loss dashes Avonworth’s state title hopes in PIAA 3A final
MECHANICSBURG — Avonworth trailed by two touchdowns in the second half of a state championship game and rallied to force overtime.
Central Catholic ready for championship-caliber challenge vs. St. Joseph’s Prep
December 6, 2024
On this side of the state, St. Joseph’s Prep probably finds few fans.
Avonworth sees similarities in PIAA finals opponent Northwestern Lehigh
As Avonworth makes its second trip to the state finals in five years, the Antelopes feel differently about this one.
Mike Warfield returns as Aliquippa football coach after 1-year leave of absence
December 4, 2024
Former Aliquippa coach Mike Warfield said he found himself missing the players and coaches even more than he’d expected when he took this past football season off.
PIAA tweaks competitive balance rule to make bumps in class slightly less likely
Only teams that reach the state finals will be affected by the PIAA competitive-balance rule following a change approved Wednesday.
Early signing day for 2025: WPIAL, City League football players finalize Division I plans
The early signing period arrived earlier than usual.
Interception in end zone clinches high-scoring PIAA semifinal win for Central Catholic
November 30, 2024
ALTOONA — Chrys Black Jr. hoped to take a game ball home with him Saturday, surely a rare treat for a Central Catholic freshman in the state playoffs.
Bishop McDevitt gets physical, runs past Pine-Richland in PIAA Class 5A semifinals
ALTOONA — Bishop McDevitt is headed to the state finals, thanks to a decades-old commitment by the Crusaders to embrace WPIAL football.
Thomas Jefferson stumbles in 2nd half, falls to Lampeter-Strasburg in state semifinals
November 29, 2024
ALTOONA — A dominant second quarter by Thomas Jefferson meant a trip to the state finals was just 24 minutes away.
Pine-Richland faces SEC-bound quarterback with PIAA touchdown record in state semifinals
An SEC-bound quarterback with a record-setting arm and rock-solid game awaits Pine-Richland in the state semifinals.
Thanksgiving football practice a tradition reserved for champions
November 27, 2024
Whenever Thomas Jefferson holds a Thanksgiving Day practice, coach Bill Cherpak never knows who might show up.
Serra Catholic hires former assistant Akeeme Robinson as football coach
Former Serra Catholic assistant coach Akeeme Robinson was hired as head coach, the school announced Wednesday.
Chartiers Valley poised to open football coaching jobs
November 26, 2024
Chartiers Valley may start looking for a new football coach.
Pine-Richland defense shines en route to 9th WPIAL championship
November 23, 2024
Jay Timmons pointed to a corner of Acrisure Stadium where he watched games as a kid, remembering back to when his father played linebacker for the Steelers.
5 things to watch in H.S. football: WPIAL finals at Acrisure Stadium bring added excitement and sometimes new shoes
November 22, 2024
Pine-Richland coach Jon LeDonne wonders what the grass at Acrisure Stadium might look like when the WPIAL 5A final kicks off Saturday night.
Fierce defenses square off when Pine-Richland, Peters Township meet in WPIAL title rematch
November 21, 2024
There are plenty of old football coach sayings that link defense and championships.
Kiski Area football coach Sam Albert hangs up head coach’s whistle after 3 decades
November 20, 2024
Thirty-four years after landing his first head coaching job, Kiski Area football coach Sam Albert has decided those days are over.
PIAA bumps Thomas Jefferson to Saturday, changes sites for Westinghouse, Central Catholic games
The PIAA has pushed Thomas Jefferson’s state playoff game back a day and changed the location of games involving Westinghouse and Central Catholic.
PIAA rules Imani Christian basketball player Kieshaun Demus eligible, reverses WPIAL decision
November 19, 2024
The PIAA reversed an earlier WPIAL decision and ruled Imani Christian basketball player Kieshaun Demus eligible after an appeal hearing Tuesday.
Central Catholic avenges WPIAL title game losses with rout of North Allegheny
November 16, 2024
After three straight losses here in the WPIAL finals, three words summed up Central Catholic’s mood this week: “Enough is enough.”
Central Catholic hopes to finally solve North Allegheny as teams clash again in WPIAL 6A final
Xxavier Thomas is about to play in his fourth WPIAL championship game, a rather rare feat accomplished by the Central Catholic senior.
Pine-Richland bulldozes Bethel Park to earn return trip to Class 5A finals
Josh Nindl celebrated Friday night with a WWE-style championship belt slung over his shoulder.
Quarterback’s quick return boosts No. 1 Pine-Richland for WPIAL semifinal vs. high-scoring Bethel Park
November 15, 2024
There were concerns Aaron “Oobi” Strader had broken his collarbone late in the regular season, an injury that would’ve cost top-seeded Pine-Richland its quarterback.
5 things to watch in H.S. football: Will coaches Cherpak, Walker add to WPIAL trophy collections?
McKeesport’s Matt Miller and Central Catholic’s Ryan Lehmeier will try to win their first WPIAL titles as head coaches this week. It won’t come easy, since their coaching counterparts in Saturday’s finals already have big trophy collections.
Seneca Valley football coach Ron Butschle steps down after ‘difficult year’
November 13, 2024
Citing a “negativity” around the program, Ron Butschle resigned Tuesday as Seneca Valley’s football coach, saying his exit might give the team a fresh start.
Former Lincoln Park basketball star Meleek Thomas commits to Arkansas
November 11, 2024
Former Lincoln Park basketball star Meleek Thomas committed Monday to Arkansas.
5 things we learned from 2nd week of WPIAL football playoffs: Remarkable Aliquippa streak ends
November 9, 2024
It took a big win by another elite program to snap Aliquippa’s amazing WPIAL championship streak.
WPIAL announces semifinal sites for next round of football playoffs
The WPIAL on Saturday released sites for the next round of football playoff games.
‘Streaks are meant to be broken’: No. 1 Thomas Jefferson ends Aliquippa’s run of 16 straight finals appearances
November 8, 2024
The streak is over.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football: Rematches galore in 2nd week of playoffs
Rarely does a WPIAL football team play the same opponent in back-to-back games, but that’s the situation facing Beaver.
Class 4A heavyweights to collide when Aliquippa meets Thomas Jefferson
November 7, 2024
Go back in time four years to when Thomas Jefferson and Aliquippa met in the 2020 WPIAL finals. It seemed then that a new rivalry was blossoming with the Quips’ arrival in Class 4A.
‘Focus, eyes forward’: After rule change snafu, Allderdice boys soccer set for PIAA tournament
November 5, 2024
When the WPIAL released its brackets for the boys soccer playoffs, Allderdice wasn’t included. The Dragons had learned weeks earlier that they weren’t eligible, but it still stung.
5 things we learned from 1st round of WPIAL football playoffs: South Allegheny returns to the party
November 2, 2024
The last time South Allegheny won a WPIAL playoff game, fans might have skipped a Friday night episode of the “A-Team” or “Dallas” to instead watch the Gladiators.
Fort Cherry junior Matt Sieg commits to Penn State
Penn State was the first of nearly two dozen schools to offer Fort Cherry’s Matt Sieg a scholarship, but ultimately the Nittany Lions’ offer was all he needed.
WPIAL announces sites for Friday’s football playoff games
The WPIAL on Saturday announced sites for the next round of football playoff games.
Tyler Eber runs for 238 yards, 2 TDs as No. 1 Thomas Jefferson rolls past West Allegheny
November 1, 2024
Thomas Jefferson’s Tyler Eber wasn’t counting his carries, and neither was his coach, so they were a little surprised to hear he’d run the ball nearly 50 times.
5 things to watch in WPIAL opening round: Wild card decisions under scrutiny
Did the WPIAL football committee get the wild cards right?
Thomas Jefferson finds ‘true identity’ ahead of WPIAL playoff test vs. West Allegheny
October 31, 2024
It’s tough to win in November as a WPIAL football team with an identity crisis.
Breaking down the 2024 WPIAL football playoffs
Class 6A
Class 4A seeds raise eyebrows as WPIAL releases brackets for 2024 football playoffs
“Shocked and surprised.”
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2024 football playoff pairings
Outside of wild cards, the 2024 WPIAL playoff field is set.
Beaver knocks off Avonworth, creates 3-way tie for Western Hills title
Beaver won its first conference title in almost two decades, but coach Cort Rowse didn’t care to ponder whether this was the biggest win in recent history.
5 things to watch in Week 9: New wild card approach puts playoff hopes in WPIAL football committee’s hands
October 25, 2024
In most other years, Friday’s finale between Hopewell and North Catholic might be considered almost a play-in game.
Avonworth seeks another outright Western Hills title but Beaver can force 3-way tie
Which WPIAL football team has the longest conference winning streak now that Aliquippa’s has ended? That would be Avonworth, which hasn’t lost to a conference foe since 2021.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2024 football playoff pairings
October 23, 2024
The 2024 WPIAL football playoff field is taking shape with 35 teams having already clinched a spot entering Week 9.
State legislators support in-depth study of PIAA policies, structure, finances
October 22, 2024
State legislators have voted to launch a comprehensive review of the PIAA.
5 things we learned in Week 8: Might WPIAL’s longest playoff drought be nearing its end?
October 19, 2024
Carlynton football hasn’t had many chances to celebrate in recent years, a harsh reality that coach John Tortorea doesn’t hide from his players.
WPIAL high school football rankings: Week ending Oct. 20, 2024
Class 6A
2-point gamble pays off as No. 2 Montour tops No. 1 Aliquippa, earns Parkway Conference title
Montour wasn’t playing for overtime.
Montour wants to disrupt Aliquippa’s 5-year dominance in Parkway Conference
October 18, 2024
The Parkway has a reputation as one of the WPIAL’s tougher conferences, but Aliquippa seems to have tamed it.
5 things to watch in Week 8: WPIAL playoffs seem to have started for some teams
There are two weeks left in the regular season, but Mt. Lebanon coach Greg Perry told his team that their playoffs start Friday.
Imani Christian says ‘unique quirk’ in enrollment process may have violated PIAA transfer rules
October 16, 2024
A “unique quirk” in the enrollment process for Imani Christian students may have led to a violation of PIAA transfer rules, said the school, which is the subject of a WPIAL investigation.
Westinghouse, USO football players face suspensions for City League semifinals
The Westinghouse and USO football teams must play shorthanded in the City League semifinals because of their game-ending altercation last Friday.
Ringgold completes investigation, allows football team to resume season
October 15, 2024
An investigation into alleged misconduct by Ringgold football players was completed and the team can resume its season, the school district announced Monday.
WPIAL launches investigations into Baldwin, Imani Christian over ‘possible recruiting violations’
October 14, 2024
The WPIAL has launched separate investigations into the Baldwin and Imani Christian athletic departments over potential recruiting violations.
Teams can compete in additional regular season contests under WPIAL policy change
WPIAL wrestlers can compete in more matches than usual starting this winter, and teams in other sports might see their regular season schedules increase as well.
Wrestling standout Dylan Pitzer remains ineligible following WPIAL hearing
Wrestling standout Dylan Pitzer, a WPIAL runner-up last winter, remains ineligible for his junior season after a hearing Monday at the league office in Scott.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 7: Class 2A has new look
October 12, 2024
In some WPIAL football classifications, the names near the top of the conference standings don’t change too much from year to year.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 13, 2024
Class 6A
Run-heavy Upper St. Clair takes to air for winning points in showdown with Bethel Park
October 11, 2024
The goldfish maybe isn’t the most intimidating of animals, but that’s the one Upper St. Clair’s Charlie Bywalski was thinking about Friday night.
5 things to watch in Week 7: Undefeated conference foes battle in 7 key WPIAL matchups
Call them the “Super 7” of Week 7.
High-scoring Bethel Park offense brings balance into Allegheny Six clash with Upper St. Clair
The WPIAL’s highest-scoring offense has gone all season without arguably its best player, but that’ll change Friday.
Ringgold calls off football game vs. Thomas Jefferson, investigates ‘alleged incidents of misconduct’
October 10, 2024
Ringgold has called off Friday’s football game while investigating unspecified allegations “that involve members of the football team.”
6 WPIAL coaches earn statewide honor from PIAA for 2023-24 seasons
Six WPIAL coaches earned statewide recognition Wednesday when the PIAA announced its coaches of the year for the 2023-24 school year.
Rochester football player Carter Mason recovering in hospital after in-game head injury, brain bleed
October 8, 2024
Terri Mason was home watching a livestream of the Rochester football game when she realized something was wrong.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 6: North Allegheny’s Walker hits 250 wins
October 5, 2024
Art Walker as a kid witnessed plenty of wins at Mt. Lebanon’s stadium, a place where his father coached for years.
‘Why change it?’: No. 2 Upper St. Clair rides running game to take down No. 4 South Fayette
There wasn’t much mystery around Upper St. Clair’s offense Friday night. The Panthers ran the football 43 times, which is pretty much what they did last week, too.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 6, 2024
Class 6A
Upper St. Clair faces yet another undefeated Allegheny Six foe, this time South Fayette
October 4, 2024
With the regular season already half over, Upper St. Clair will likely face three undefeated teams in a row.
5 things to watch in Week 6: Move over quarterbacks, is the WPIAL now the cradle of kickers?
Which decades-old kicking record might be broken this week?
Beaver boys soccer must forfeit section win under new PIAA rule
October 3, 2024
The Beaver boys soccer team must forfeit a section win because of a new rule that school administrators say should be reconsidered.
WPIAL erases section games vs. Allderdice, Obama Academy from soccer standings
The WPIAL has erased some section wins and losses in boys and girls soccer.
WPIAL sets brackets for 2024 team golf championships
October 2, 2024
Thirty-four boys teams and 13 girls teams will compete next week for WPIAL golf titles.
Imani Christian basketball player among 3 transfers ruled ineligible by WPIAL
September 30, 2024
Imani Christian basketball player Kieshaun Demus, a sophomore who transferred from North Hills, was ruled ineligible for his sophomore season by the WPIAL.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 5: Hopewell kicker ties record with 55-yard boot
September 28, 2024
Hopewell hasn’t had many moments to celebrate in recent years, but kicker Rocco Marcantonio gave the team one Friday night.
Behind crew of 1st-time starters, North Allegheny cross country teams leading the pack
If North Allegheny defends its boys and girls WPIAL country titles this fall, the celebration will surely include a number of first-time champions.
Pick-6 propels Central Catholic past rival North Allegheny in WPIAL finals rematch
Against an offense with a sophomore at quarterback and a banged-up running game, Central Catholic didn’t allow them any stress relief in Friday’s second half.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 29, 2024
Class 6A
Familiar championship foes North Allegheny, Central Catholic won’t look beyond Friday
September 27, 2024
Central Catholic and North Allegheny seem likely to meet twice this season, maybe with a rematch in the WPIAL finals.
5 things to watch in Week 5: Little room for error in WPIAL 4A with 8-team playoff ahead
Eight maybe isn’t enough when counting WPIAL playoff berths.
Westinghouse’s defense dominates Allderdice in battle for 1st place in City League
Dozens of skulls and crossbones already decorate Josiah Collins’ helmet, decals awarded by Westinghouse coaches for sacks, tackles for loss and other explosive plays made on defense.
Derry javelin champ Sophia Mazzoni commits to Auburn
September 25, 2024
Derry javelin thrower Sophia Mazzoni, an elite talent with state and national titles, committed Wednesday to Auburn.
5 things we learned from Week 4 of WPIAL football season: Power shifts south in Class 5A
September 21, 2024
There could be a lot of football talk in the South Hills this fall, maybe while eating sandwiches stuffed with French fries and coleslaw.
WPIAL high school football rankings: Week ending Sept. 22, 2024
Class 6A
Behind determined defense, Penn Hills hands Aliquippa 1st regular-season loss since 2021
The night ended much the way it started with the Penn Hills defense celebrating a stop.
Despite mismatch in enrollments, Aliquippa draws nonconference clash vs. Penn Hills
September 20, 2024
Aliquippa went to court to avoid a promotion to Class 5A football this fall, but the Quips still get a taste of that classification on Friday.
5 things to watch in Week 4: Excitement builds in Monessen for battle of undefeated teams
The buildup to facing a defending WPIAL champion was always going to be big, but undefeated records make this Monessen’s biggest home game in quite a while.
Shady Side Academy football coach Chuck DiNardo resigns
September 19, 2024
Chuck DiNardo has resigned as football coach at Shady Side Academy, stepping down four games into his eighth season with the Bulldogs.
PIAA adopts girls flag football as sanctioned high school sport statewide
September 18, 2024
Flag football is officially a sanctioned sport for Pennsylvania high school girls, meaning the WPIAL and PIAA soon will be crowning champions.
WPIAL notebook: Wrestling teams want in-season tournaments exempt from PIAA contest limit
September 17, 2024
If WPIAL wrestling teams get their wish, some in-season tournaments no longer will count toward their 22-contest limit set by the PIAA.
Clairton reveals ‘Tyler Boyd Stadium’ as new name for high school football field
September 16, 2024
Not only is Clairton’s football stadium getting new turf, new bleachers and new lights, it also has a new name: Tyler Boyd Stadium.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 3: Rare low-scoring tilts draw attention
September 14, 2024
Don’t call for maintenance.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 15, 2024
Class 6A
Missing its top 3 running backs, Pine-Richland fends off North Hills in Northeast opener
The Pine-Richland roster lists Jalen Neals as a wide receiver, but the versatile junior had a hint that his coaches were planning a position change.
Season-ending knee injury sidelines Alabama recruit Fiona Mahan as Avonworth chases 4th straight WPIAL title
September 13, 2024
Fiona Mahan continues to guide Avonworth on its quest for a fourth straight WPIAL girls soccer title, but the senior has taken on a new role after a season-ending knee injury.
North Hills rides momentum of 3-0 start into conference opener vs. Pine-Richland
North Hills is off to its first 3-0 start in five years, early-season success that coach Pat Carey credits to the snaps his seniors logged over a couple of tough seasons.
5 things to watch in Week 3: Conference openers arrive for many WPIAL football teams
September 12, 2024
WPIAL schedule-makers gave everyone at least a couple of warm-ups to start the schedule. Now, the majority of WPIAL teams will jump into conference play.
Aliquippa requests court-appointed mediator to settle football lawsuit vs. PIAA
September 10, 2024
The PIAA has until Friday to decide whether it wants to resolve its legal battle with Aliquippa School District through mediation.
5 things we learned in Week 2 of WPIAL football: Ringgold finally gets back in win column
September 7, 2024
Ringgold was ready to snap the longest active losing streak in the WPIAL when the Rams went for two in overtime a week ago. But the gamble failed in a heartbreaking 14-13 loss.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 8, 2024
Class 6A
North Allegheny boys soccer focused on unfinished business
A WPIAL title slipped away on penalty kicks and a trip to the state finals fell two rounds short.
Central Catholic forgets about 0-2 start with mercy rule win over Woodland Hills
The PA announcer at the Wolvarena encouraged fans to travel home safely and never talk about this game again.
5 things to watch in Week 2: NFL encroaches on Friday night high school football tradition
September 6, 2024
The storied tradition of Friday night football adds another chapter this week with high school games all across Pennsylvania. But might a game played in South America keep some fans home, especially on the other side of the state?
Transfer Devin Harris eligible to quarterback Penn Hills in WPIAL playoffs
September 4, 2024
If Penn Hills makes the football playoffs as the Indians hope, quarterback Devin Harris is eligible to lead them.
Wrestling standout Dylan Pitzer ineligible after transfer from Mt. Pleasant to Derry
Wrestling standout Dylan Pitzer, a WPIAL runner-up last winter, could miss his junior season after transferring from Mt. Pleasant to Derry.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 1: Weather throws teams for loop
August 31, 2024
Thunderstorms barreled into Allegheny and Beaver counties Friday night causing lengthy lightning delays at games from Aliquippa to Avonworth.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 1, 2024
Class 6A
North Allegheny girls volleyball chasing 8th straight PIAA title
Here is an easy way to put a state championship streak in perspective.
Peters Township punishes McKeesport with defense, running game
Peters Township knows a little about running the football, too.
Peters Township draws matchup with McKeesport’s triple-option in Week 1 nonconference clash
August 30, 2024
McKeesport runs an offense that’s rather unique in the WPIAL, leading opponents to scheme up new ways to defend against the triple-option.
Kraft Heinz, Aliquippa breaking ground on athletic, academic center near school’s football stadium
A year after Aliquippa announced a partnership with Kraft Heinz, the two will break ground Friday on a new athletic and academic center near the school’s football stadium.
5 things to watch in Week 1: Aliquippa’s new coach debuts in battle of state champions
Some coaching jobs come with more pressure than others.
‘He related to everybody:’ Friends, coaches, athletes mourn Baldwin track and field coach Ed Helbig
August 28, 2024
Ed Helbig didn’t need to yell or get loud to motivate his athletes, yet the longtime Baldwin coach’s voice was certainly the biggest in WPIAL track and field.
Mars boys basketball coach Rob Carmody resigns after 26 years
August 27, 2024
Once Rob Carmody decided now was the time to resign as Mars’ boys basketball coach, his son Robby had a request.
Nationally ranked St. Frances Academy tops Central Catholic in showcase at Wolvarena
August 25, 2024
There was no surprise about the talent Central Catholic’s opponent brought to town.
5 things we learned in high school football Week Zero: Kick returns liven up openers
August 24, 2024
The spread offense. The no-huddle. The Gatorade shower.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Aug. 25, 2024
Class 6A
Montour defense stands tall against Central Valley rushing attack in Week Zero victory
Breaking long runs can be a big part of Central Valley’s offense, especially with a 200-pound running back that has a hard-to-tackle reputation.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the coaches
August 23, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top coaching changes for the 2024 season.
Central Valley, Montour maintain ‘really healthy rivalry’ with Week Zero rematch
One point was the margin last year when Montour and Central Valley met in a conference game, so how could they not have a rematch?
5 things to watch in Week Zero: Wolvarena showcase includes visit by national powerhouse
St. Frances Academy, a traditionally talented high school football team from Baltimore, has a schedule dotted with national powers.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the specialists
August 22, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top kickers and punters for the 2024 season.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the safeties
August 21, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top safeties for the 2024 season.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the cornerbacks
August 20, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top cornerbacks for the 2024 season.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the linebackers
August 19, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top linebackers for the 2024 season.
WPIAL Class 5A preview: Increased playoff field a welcomed change
August 18, 2024
Upper St. Clair and Woodland Hills felt the disappointment last season, and Penn Hills experienced it two years ago.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the defensive line
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top defensive linemen for the 2024 season.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the offensive line
August 17, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top offensive linemen for the 2024 season.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the tight ends
August 16, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top tight ends for the 2024 season.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the wide receivers
August 15, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top wide receivers for the 2024 season.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs
August 14, 2024
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top running backs for the 2024 season.
2024 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks
August 13, 2024
Starting today, TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here is a look at the top quarterbacks for the 2024 season.
WPIAL approves new section alignments for spring sports in 2025, ’26 seasons
August 12, 2024
Knowing that boys volleyball coaches prefer room in the schedule for tournaments, the WPIAL on Monday approved a new section alignment with that idea in mind.
Record-setting quarterback eligible at Western Beaver after forgoing Central Catholic transfer
Record-setting quarterback Jaivin Peel is fully eligible for his sophomore football season at Western Beaver after a hearing Monday at the WPIAL office in Scott.
After eventful offseason, new coach out to continue Aliquippa’s tradition of excellence
August 10, 2024
Editor’s note: Trib HSSN will publish team-by-team previews for one conference per day until the start of the high school football season Aug. 23.
Fit to be tied after missing playoffs, Upper St. Clair poised for big season
August 9, 2024
Forget about tiebreakers or wild cards, Upper St. Clair’s mission this fall is to win enough conference games to clinch a playoff spot without any help.
Defending WPIAL champion Peters Township not looking past next opponent
Editor’s note: Trib HSSN will publish team-by-team previews for one conference per day until the start of the high school football season Aug. 23.
Woodland Hills looks to give Scoop Smith more help, return to playoffs
August 8, 2024
Getting the ball to Scoop Smith was the best option any time Woodland Hills’ offense faced a tough spot and needed a big play.
Gateway to follow veteran offensive linemen to success in Class 5A
No matter which quarterback Gateway starts behind center or which running back carries the ball, the Gators know their success is on the line.
Upper St. Clair’s Tyler Robbins commits to Miami (Ohio)
August 6, 2024
Upper St. Clair’s Tyler Robbins, a 6-foot-10 forward who won a WPIAL basketball title last winter, committed Tuesday to Miami (Ohio).
Sad day at Allderdice as football team takes practice field without late coach Jerry Haslett
August 5, 2024
Mark Matson’s morning started with a scavenger hunt of sorts as the Allderdice assistant coach searched through boxes for the football team’s practice jerseys.
McKeesport sophomore Kemon Spell gives Penn State 1st commitment from 2027 class
August 2, 2024
McKeesport sophomore Kemon Spell can’t sign with for two more years, but the highly recruited running back and defensive back has already picked his college.
PIAA drops appeals court fight vs. Aliquippa football; school’s lawsuit continues
The PIAA has ended its appeals-court efforts to move Aliquippa football into a higher classification this fall.
WPIAL schedules eligibility hearing for record-setting QB after transfer to Central Catholic
July 30, 2024
The WPIAL will require an eligibility hearing for record-setting quarterback Jaivin Peel.
WPIAL grants eligibility to 4 transfers, denies Central Catholic football freshman
July 29, 2024
Greensburg Central Catholic transfer Anthony “A.J.” Tarpley is fully eligible to play basketball for the Centurions this winter.
2024 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Elizabeth Forward’s Christopher Climes
July 26, 2024
Christopher Climes works out with a professional soccer trainer, which wouldn’t seem unusual if the senior were a midfielder on Elizabeth Forward’s soccer team.
WPIAL announces 2024 championship schedule for fall sports
July 25, 2024
Eight months before the world’s top golfers converge on Oakmont Country Club for the U.S. Open, some of the WPIAL’s best players will try to tame the historic course.
City League mourns death of longtime Allderdice football coach Jerry Haslett
July 24, 2024
Longtime City League coach Jerry Haslett, who hailed from a football family, died Wednesday. He was 59.
Mt. Lebanon pitcher David Shields signs with Kansas City Royals, forgoes college baseball
July 22, 2024
Mt. Lebanon’s David Shields is turning pro.
2024 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Upper St. Clair’s Nate Stohl
July 21, 2024
As an all-conference lineman committed to an Ivy League school, Nate Stohl’s coaches could talk at length about the senior’s football skills.
Appellate judge denies PIAA request, keeping Aliquippa in Class 4A football
July 18, 2024
The injunction keeping Aliquippa in Class 4A football remains in place after a Commonwealth Court judge denied a PIAA request for a stay.
WPIAL releases 2024-25 basketball schedules, updates section alignment for girls teams
The WPIAL released basketball schedules for the upcoming season Thursday and revealed an updated section alignment for girls that moved Greensburg Central Catholic to Class 3A.
Knoch transfer Colt Sprankle earns postseason eligibility after PIAA board overturns WPIAL
The PIAA board overturned a WPIAL decision and granted postseason eligibility to Knoch junior Colt Sprankle, a football-playing transfer from Armstrong.
PIAA board favors 6 classes for girls volleyball, rejects plan to expand track to 3
July 17, 2024
STATE COLLEGE — The PIAA wants to increase girls volleyball to six classifications, but a request to expand track and field to three was rejected by the board.
PIAA endorses potential changes to competitive-balance rule, could allow appeals on health and safety grounds
STATE COLLEGE — The PIAA board wants to remove some much-maligned words from its competitive-balance rule: those that have prohibited health and safety as grounds for an appeal.
PIAA asks appellate court to lift injunction that keeps Aliquippa in 4A football
July 16, 2024
A Commonwealth Court judge must decide whether there was a proper basis for a lower court’s ruling that kept the Aliquippa football team in Class 4A.
Aliquippa’s Mike Warfield taking ‘leave of absence’ as Quips’ football coach
July 15, 2024
Mike Warfield says football fans will see him at Aliquippa’s stadium this fall, but adds with a laugh that his new job on Friday nights might be selling 50/50 tickets.
PIAA proposal to force 2-time state champions into higher class lacks support from WPIAL board
The WPIAL doesn’t favor a potential PIAA rule that forces two-time defending state champions into a higher classification.
Mt. Lebanon’s David Shields picked by Royals in 2nd round of MLB Draft
July 14, 2024
Kansas City Royals scouts came to Mt. Lebanon in April to watch David Shields pitch and stayed around to talk after he struck out 13 batters in a complete-game win.
The Southern Columbia rule? Teams winning consecutive state titles would be moved into higher class under PIAA proposal
July 12, 2024
Some might call it the Southern Columbia rule.
2024 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: North Allegheny’s Jack Yatchenko
July 11, 2024
Jack Yatchenko was on the sideline for the play that pretty much clinched a WPIAL title for North Allegheny.
Peters Township’s Natalie Wetzel commits to play basketball at Miami (Fla).
July 9, 2024
Peters Township rising senior Natalie Wetzel, one of the WPIAL’s top girls basketball recruits, had college offers that stretched from New England to the Southwest.
Seneca Valley’s Lexie Hames, Neshannock’s Addy Frye top 2024 all-state softball teams
July 5, 2024
Two WPIAL softball players, Seneca Valley’s Lexie Hames and Neshannock’s Addy Frye, were named Pennsylvania’s top pitcher and player when all-state teams were announced Friday.
Armstrong’s Emma Paul named 2023-24 TribLive HSSN Girls Athlete of the Year
July 3, 2024
Paul video
Butler’s Drew Griffith named 2023-24 TribLive HSSN Boys Athlete of the Year
Drew Griffith video
PIAA asking Commonwealth Court for emergency stay to force Aliquippa football to Class 5A
With football season only weeks away, the PIAA has asked the Commonwealth Court for an expedited hearing that could force Aliquippa into a higher classification.
2024 Pa. State Baseball Coaches Association all-state team includes 44 players from WPIAL, City League
July 1, 2024
More than 40 WPIAL and City League baseball players earned all-state recognition Monday as chosen by the Pennsylvania State Baseball Coaches Association.
Top stories of the 2023-24 school year in WPIAL sports
June 29, 2024
Here’s a look back at the biggest high school sports stories of the 2023-24 school year.
WPIAL will tweak girls basketball sections to move Greensburg Central Catholic to 3A
June 20, 2024
The WPIAL must amend its girls basketball section alignment for next season to move Greensburg Central Catholic from Class 2A to 3A.
Newly hired boys basketball coach Brandon Sensor sees Shaler as ‘right opportunity’
When Brandon Sensor resigned at Chartiers Valley four months ago, the boys basketball coach insisted that wouldn’t be the end of his coaching journey.
Shaler poised to hire boys basketball coach Brandon Sensor
June 18, 2024
Former Chartiers Valley boys basketball coach Brandon Sensor is close to returning to the WPIAL.
WPIAL reveals updated section alignments for winter sports including basketball, wrestling
The big-school classification in WPIAL boys basketball is getting a little bigger this winter, but not big enough for more than two sections.
PIAA to appeal Beaver County judge’s decision that kept Aliquippa in 4A football
June 17, 2024
The PIAA is taking its legal battle with Aliquippa to Commonwealth Court, hoping to undo a Beaver County judge’s ruling that says the Quips can play football in Class 4A next season.
Avonworth says disputed call in PIAA finals shifted momentum in 12-0 loss to Neumann-Goretti
June 14, 2024
STATE COLLEGE — Every bit of momentum was on Neumann-Goretti’s side when Andrew Dankanich bounced a game-ending grand slam off the left-field foul pole, handing Avonworth a 12-0 loss in five innings.
Eden Christian falls to undefeated Faith Christian in PIAA Class A final
STATE COLLEGE — One imperfect inning dashed Eden Christian’s thoughts of playing the spoiler.
Indiana’s 1st appearance in PIAA baseball finals ends with walk-off loss to Holy Ghost Prep
June 13, 2024
STATE COLLEGE — Indiana reached the state finals for the first time, but like the WPIAL championship two weeks earlier, the Little Indians again watched someone else celebrate.
PIAA Class A baseball championship preview: Eden Christian vs. Faith Christian
The PIAA baseball championships return Thursday and Friday to Penn State’s Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, where the games have been held since 2011.
PIAA Class 3A baseball championship preview: Avonworth vs. Neumann-Goretti
The PIAA baseball championships return Thursday and Friday to Penn State’s Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, where the games have been held since 2011.
PIAA Class 4A baseball championship preview: Indiana vs. Holy Ghost Prep
June 12, 2024
The PIAA baseball finals return Thursday and Friday to Penn State, the state championship host since 2011.
WPIAL basketball standout Meleek Thomas leaving Lincoln Park for Overtime Elite pro league
June 11, 2024
WPIAL basketball standout Meleek Thomas is leaving Lincoln Park to join Overtime Elite, a professional league and academy for 16- to 20-year-olds based in Atlanta.
Avonworth reaches 1st PIAA championship game after fast start in state semifinal
June 10, 2024
HOMER CITY — Extra-inning wins had become Avonworth’s specialty in these playoffs, but the Antelopes weren’t waiting around this time.
Acclaimed senior class accomplished plenty for North Allegheny baseball
June 8, 2024
The worst day for any high school baseball coach is cut day, says North Allegheny’s Andrew Heck. That’s when the roster gets whittled down before the season opener.
Former WPIAL, Wild Things player James Meeker gets MLB call-up from Brewers
June 7, 2024
Former WPIAL baseball player James Meeker, a North Allegheny graduate who got his professional start with the Washington Wild Things, was called up to the major leagues Friday for the first time.
PIAA announces semifinal sites, times for 2024 state softball playoffs
Neshannock and Laurel won’t travel far for the next round of the PIAA softball playoffs and neither will Chartiers-Houston or Carmichaels.
PIAA releases semifinal sites, times for 2024 state baseball playoffs
WPIAL baseball teams Avonworth, Eden Christian and Indiana learned the site and time of their state semifinal games when the PIAA released the schedule Friday.
Seneca Valley’s Lexie Hames named Gatorade Pa. Softball Player of the Year
Seneca Valley pitcher Lexie Hames was named Gatorade Pennsylvania Softball Player of the Year on Friday, making her the first WPIAL athlete to win the award in six years.
Unlikely hero pitches unsinkable Avonworth to another extra-innings win
June 6, 2024
Carson Franc kept working on his pitches and believing his time on the mound could come, despite having thrown very few innings all season.
WPIAL rules Aliquippa rising junior ineligible following transfer from North Hills
Aliquippa’s Jamar Allen, an all-conference football player who transferred from North Hills, was ruled ineligible Thursday by the WPIAL.
PIAA releases quarterfinal sites, times for 2024 state softball playoffs
June 4, 2024
The PIAA has announced sites and times for the the state softball quarterfinals with 10 WPIAL teams still in contention for a title.
PIAA announces quarterfinal sites, times for 2024 state baseball playoffs
The PIAA has announced sites and times for the next round of the state baseball playoffs with only eight WPIAL teams having survived to reach the quarterfinals.
Football committee will choose wild card teams under new WPIAL postseason format
The WPIAL has finalized its postseason plans for next football season and on Tuesday revealed a new system for choosing wild card teams.
WPIAL releases updated football schedules with Aliquippa returning to 4A
The WPIAL released updated football schedules Tuesday that put defending state champion Aliquippa back in Class 4A for next season, but that move also affected about two dozen other schools.
Mt. Lebanon senior David Shields named Gatorade Pa. Baseball Player of the Year
Mt. Lebanon senior David Shields, a talented left-handed pitcher and outfielder, was named Monday as the Gatorade Pennsylvania Baseball Player of the Year.
North Allegheny pins PIAA loss on tough Wilson lefty, not ‘WPIAL hangover’
June 3, 2024
North Allegheny coach Andrew Heck could’ve blamed his team’s state playoff loss on the dreaded WPIAL hangover, but instead credited the craftiness of a left-hander who threw a one-hitter.
Olympic hopeful Jordan Geist of Knoch headlines WPIAL Hall of Fame class
June 1, 2024
Jordan Geist, who smashed records as a high school thrower for Knoch’s track team, caught a mid-week flight home from Europe so he could be inducted Friday night into the WPIAL Hall of Fame.
Olympic hopeful Jordan Geist of Knoch headlines WPIAL Hall of Fame class
May 31, 2024
Jordan Geist, who smashed records as a high school thrower for Knoch’s track team, caught a mid-week flight home from Europe so he could be inducted Friday night into the WPIAL Hall of Fame.
PIAA announces 1st round sites, times for 2024 baseball playoffs
Plum and Seneca Valley will host doubleheaders Monday in the first round of the PIAA baseball playoffs.
North Allegheny’s David Posey turns tables, no-hits Mt. Lebanon for WPIAL Class 6A baseball title
May 29, 2024
David Posey wasn’t the starting pitcher drawing no-hit talk before the WPIAL finals, yet the North Allegheny senior walked off the mound at Wild Things Park with a zero on the scoreboard.
2024 WPIAL Class 6A baseball championship preview: Mt. Lebanon vs. North Allegheny
2024 WPIAL Class 6A baseball championship
Avonworth dethrones Riverside in marathon 14-inning WPIAL Class 3A title game
May 28, 2024
A 14-inning game in the WPIAL finals is almost unthinkable, but Avonworth catcher Mason Metz thought the outcome might go down as the biggest surprise from Tuesday night’s marathon.
2024 WPIAL Class 4A baseball championship preview: North Catholic vs. Indiana
2024 WPIAL Class 4A baseball championship
Fort Cherry relay team wins PIAA gold after coming close in football, basketball
May 26, 2024
SHIPPENSBURG — Before the state track championships started, Fort Cherry’s relay team of Dylan Wudkwych, Tegan Henke, Shane Cornali and Matt Sieg got a text from the school’s basketball coach.
Hampton’s Dale Hall golden again, but in a different event, at PIAA meet
SHIPPENSBURG — Hampton’s Dale Hall won a state title in the 800 meters Saturday at the PIAA track championship, a year after winning gold in the 1,600 meters.
Avonworth/Northgate sprinter Hayzes Robinson joins sisters’ tradition with PIAA gold in 100
SHIPPENSBURG — Winning gold medals at Seth Grove Stadium is somewhat of a tradition for the Robinson sisters, one that Hayzes was more than excited to join Saturday.
Butler’s Drew Griffith breaks PIAA championship record in 3,200, but national mark must wait
May 25, 2024
SHIPPENSBURG — Drew Griffith won his second PIAA gold medal and broke a state championship record Saturday, but unlike a day earlier, the Butler star didn’t take a run at any national marks.
Freeport’s Michael Braun adds 2nd state medal to his collection
SHIPPENSBURG — After crossing the finish line at Seth Grove Stadium, distance runners are ushered to the infield turf where they can go in a few different directions.
Cross country champion Jaxon Schoedel of Mohawk adds PIAA title in 3,200 meters
SHIPPENSBURG — Mohawk’s Jaxon Schoedel was stuck in a slow heat for the 1,600 meters a day earlier, but the 3,200 meters had everybody in one big group Saturday.
Pine-Richland pole vaulter Nadia Constantakis uses gymnastics skills to place 2nd at states
SHIPPENSBURG — Lifelong gymnast Nadia Constantakis remembers being a newcomer to the Pine-Richland track team, working out with the sprinters and having a revelation.
Fox Chapel’s Rowan Gwin part of dominant showing for WPIAL in 1,600 at PIAA championships
May 24, 2024
SHIPPENSBURG — Fox Chapel’s Rowan Gwin wasn’t at Seth Grove Stadium last year for the state track championships, but his mind was.Butler’s Drew Griffith breaks national 1,600-meter record at PIAA track championships
SHIPPENSBURG — Butler’s Drew Griffith has won big races all over the country, including a few weeks ago at the iconic Penn Relays, but the Butler star arrived Friday at Seth Grove Stadium having never won there.
Canon-McMillan’s Rose Kuchera looks to end decorated high school career with PIAA gold medal
May 23, 2024
Canon-McMillan’s Rose Kuchera is traveling this week to the state track championships where the senior needs just one more medal to complete her triple jump collection.
Aliquippa football staying in Class 4A after judge issues preliminary injunction against PIAA
Aliquippa will remain in Class 4A football next season, a Beaver County judge ruled Thursday.
WPIAL sets championship, consolation schedule for 2024 baseball playoffs
May 22, 2024
The WPIAL has set its championship and consolation schedule for the baseball playoffs with games May 28-29 in Washington.
Pinch hitter comes through in extra innings to send North Allegheny past Pine-Richland in WPIAL semifinals
North Allegheny’s Michael Hershberger is a hitter always eager for opportunities, said his coach, who called on the junior in a big spot Tuesday night.
Penn-Trafford squeezes past Fox Chapel in another tight game between section rivals
May 20, 2024
After splitting a pair of one-run games in section play, the WPIAL lined up Fox Chapel and Penn-Trafford for a playoff rubber match that was almost as tight.
WPIAL chooses new board president for 2024-25 school year
The WPIAL board ushered in a new group of officers Monday with Peters Township athletic director Brian Geyer selected to serve as president.
North Allegheny to induct decorated class into school’s Athletics Hall of Fame
May 18, 2024
Former WPIAL track standout Ayden Owens-Delerme, a qualifier for this summer’s Olympic Games, was among 13 individuals selected for induction into the North Allegheny Athletics Hall of Fame.
Beaver County judge to decide if Aliquippa football moves to Class 5A or stays in 4A
May 17, 2024
After three days of testimony in a Beaver County courtroom, attorneys for Aliquippa and the PIAA used their closing arguments to paint a contentious competitive-balance rule in drastically different ways.
Distance-running power couple shatters records at WPIAL championships
May 16, 2024
There’s probably not much that makes Butler’s Drew Griffith too nervous at a track meet nowadays, but watching Mt. Lebanon’s Logan St. John Kletter run could be on that list.
After rain halts WPIAL meet, Butler’s Drew Griffith doesn’t mind waiting to make more history
May 15, 2024
Butler’s Drew Griffith ran the 1,600 meters in record time at the WPIAL track and field championships and then waited around for hours as it rained off and on.
PIAA sets 2025-28 state championship sites for basketball, wrestling, swimming
Giant Center in Hershey will continue to host the state basketball and individual wrestling championships for the next four years, and swimming and diving is staying at Bucknell.
No. 12 Shenango credits strength of its section after upset win over No. 5 Valley
Shenango was the underdog on paper as a fourth-place finisher from one section facing the champion of another.
Chartiers Valley ‘checked all of the boxes’ for new boys basketball coach Corey Dotchin
May 14, 2024
Corey Dotchin used to listen to podcasts on his drive to basketball practice, but he won’t have the time anymore.
Sewickley Academy athletes to play football for Moon under co-op agreement
Sewickley Academy students will be playing football for Moon next fall under a plan the private school announced Tuesday.
Chartiers Valley poised to hire Corey Dotchin as boys basketball coach
Former Highlands boys basketball coach Corey Dotchin is poised to take over Chartiers Valley’s program.
Knoch stays patient at plate, rallies past Greensburg Salem in 4A 1st round
May 13, 2024
Staying patient was Knoch’s winning strategy in a playoff opener against Greensburg Salem, especially after falling behind by three runs early.
WPIAL baseball committee seeds 5A bracket by ‘throwing out the numbers,’ focuses on matchups
May 11, 2024
The WPIAL for many decades released playoff brackets that had no seed numbers, a tradition that ended several years ago.
WPIAL releases brackets for 2024 baseball playoffs
Defending champions Mt. Lebanon and Riverside were tabbed as favorites to repeat when the WPIAL on Friday released brackets for the upcoming baseball playoffs.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2024 baseball playoff pairings
May 9, 2024
The 2024 WPIAL baseball playoff field is set with 77 teams, including all six defending champions: Mt. Lebanon, Shaler, Hopewell, Riverside, Seton LaSalle and Bishop Canevin.
Mars, Mt. Lebanon, Shady Side Academy earn No. 1 seeds in 2024 WPIAL lacrosse playoffs
Defending champion Mars, which swept the WPIAL Class 2A lacrosse titles a year ago, will start this season’s playoffs as the No. 1 seed in the boys and girls tournaments.
WPIAL reveals brackets for 2024 softball playoffs
Four defending champions are favored to repeat in the upcoming WPIAL softball playoffs.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast the 2024 softball playoff pairings
May 8, 2024
The 2024 WPIAL softball playoff field is set with 76 teams, including all six defending champions ready to begin playing for gold.
Depth carries North Allegheny girls, Drew Griffith leads Butler boys to WPIAL 3A team titles
May 7, 2024
As a former computer science teacher, North Allegheny coach John Neff built a nifty spreadsheet to keep a running score of the WPIAL team track championship.
Fox Chapel lefty shuts down Plum as 4-way battle for section title rages on
May 6, 2024
Fox Chapel lefty Jeremy Haigh worked fast, threw strikes and sometimes bopped along to Plum’s walkup songs.
WPIAL to hold eligibility hearing for Aliquippa football transfer Jamar Allen
The WPIAL will hold an eligibility hearing for Aliquippa sophomore Jamar Allen, an all-conference football player who transferred there from North Hills.
WPIAL rules Imani Christian basketball’s R.J. Sledge eligible for senior year
Three-time WPIAL and state basketball champion R.J. Sledge of Imani Christian will have a chance to go four for four next winter.
Trib HSSN baseball rankings for May 4, 2024
Class 6A
Deep group of North Allegheny sprinters breaking speed ‘minimums’ this season
There are miles per hour signs posted at North Allegheny track practices, but these aren’t speed limits.
‘Get one day better, every day’: Coach Ed Helbig inspires Baldwin athletes through cancer battle
Baldwin track coach Ed Helbig has a favorite saying that he offers up as motivation to athletes on his team: “Get one day better, every day.”
Pine-Richland celebrates section title with walk-off win over rival North Allegheny
May 3, 2024
Pine-Richland had already left the bases loaded three times, but that’s not what Jake Waddell was thinking about when he came to the plate in seventh.
With focus on staying healthy, Riverside ace Christian Lucarelli works tirelessly on craft
April 29, 2024
Christian Lucarelli arrived at Riverside baseball practice with a clear, plastic sphere that was partially filled with water. The peculiar fitness tool, which has handles on the sides, is designed to strengthen core muscles.
WPIAL cancels eligibility hearings for 2 Aliquippa transfers after Central Valley drops opposition
The WPIAL has canceled eligibility hearings for Aliquippa sophomore Joseph “J.J.” Work and freshman Khalil Ellerbee, saying Central Valley no longer contests their transfers.
Former Bishop Canevin standout Daiveon Taylor, now at Aliquippa, commits to West Virginia
April 27, 2024
Daiveon Taylor wasn’t traveling to Morgantown this weekend just to watch West Virginia’s annual Gold-Blue spring game.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 28, 2024
Class 6A
Trib HSSN softball rankings for April 27, 2024
Class 6A
WPIAL schedules eligibility hearing for Imani Christian all-state basketball player R.J. Sledge
Imani Christian junior R.J. Sledge won his third straight PIAA boys basketball title in March, but his ability to win a fourth next winter is in limbo.
19 WPIAL players picked for 2024 all-state girls basketball team
April 26, 2024
A month after winning a PIAA title, Blackhawk teammates Alena Fusetti and Aubree Hupp were among 19 WPIAL girls basketball players to earn all-state honors Friday.
WPIAL reveals brackets for 2024 team track championships
April 25, 2024
The North Allegheny boys and girls will try to repeat as WPIAL champions when the track and field team playoffs start Tuesday.
North Allegheny, Sewickley Academy earn No. 1 seeds for WPIAL boys team tennis tournament
North Allegheny and Sewickley Academy drew No. 1 seeds for the WPIAL boys team tennis tournament when brackets were released Thursday.
Aliquippa injunction hearing vs. PIAA takes 3-week pause with executive director testifying
April 24, 2024
If the PIAA competitive-balance rule were nullified, “it would probably cause chaos,” the PIAA’s top administrator said Wednesday during testimony in a Beaver County courtroom.
Pirates team doctor Patrick DeMeo among witnesses called by Aliquippa in lawsuit against PIAA
April 23, 2024
Renowned orthopedic surgeon Patrick DeMeo, while testifying for Aliquippa in its lawsuit against the PIAA, said he wanted to see some numbers.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 21, 2024
Class 6A
Earpieces let high school catchers receive in-game coaching
In a stressful moment behind the plate, when the other team was trying to rally, Franklin Regional catcher Ryan Catello started hearing voices in his helmet.
With 2 teams in emerging league, North Allegheny coach encouraged with growth of flag football
Girls flag football was popular in southeastern states when Michelle Ruiz was teaching there earlier in her career, which motivated her to later make it an annual tradition for middle school kids at North Allegheny.
‘Loud and crazy’ invite crowd sees Butler record-setter Drew Griffith nearly run 4-minute mile on his home track
April 19, 2024
In meets from Boston to Los Angeles, record-setting runner Drew Griffith has wowed crowds from coast to coast over the past three months.
Peters Township linebacker Mickey Vaccarello commits to Stanford
April 17, 2024
Just days after taking a recruiting trip to the West Coast, Peters Township’s Mickey Vaccarello decided to spend his college years in California.
WPIAL notebook: Girls flag football tops 100-team threshold, on road to being PIAA sport
Girls flag football is on track to become the next sanctioned high school sport in Pennsylvania.
WPIAL to hold hearings for 2 Aliquippa football transfers, approves 3 others
A WPIAL hearing will decide the eligibility of two Aliquippa football players who transferred from rival Central Valley.
Pine-Richland senior delivers walk-off hit in 1st at-bat of season in win over Seneca Valley
April 16, 2024
A shoulder injury kept Tommy Zimmerman in the dugout for his team’s first 10 games, but the Pine-Richland senior finally got to bat Tuesday.
Corey Dotchin steps down as Highlands boys basketball coach
April 15, 2024
With his first child on the way, Corey Dotchin decided that a daily commute to Natrona Heights wouldn’t work anymore for him and his growing family.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 14, 2024
Class 6A
Versatility, commitment let Izzy Costa shine in multiple events for North Allegheny track
North Allegheny’s Izzy Costa had an upset stomach but was still was warming up for the long jump after running the 100 and 400 meters in a dual meet at Butler.
PIAA taking bids to host basketball championships
April 12, 2024
Giant Center in Hershey has hosted the state high school basketball finals for more than a decade, but could or should the PIAA championships go elsewhere?
Basketball coach Rob Niederberger, who lifted Shaler from last place to WPIAL contender, resigns
When Shaler hired Rob Niederberger as boys basketball coach nine years ago, he took over a team mired in last place. He resigned Thursday knowing the next coach will inherit a program that’s in a much better position.
Robert Morris hires Oakland Catholic’s Eddie Benton as assistant women’s basketball coach
April 9, 2024
Oakland Catholic girls basketball coach Eddie Benton, who led the Eagles to consecutive section titles, is leaving for a job at Robert Morris.
PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi on public vs. private debate: ‘We have a ‘school’ problem’
While watching private and charter schools again flourish in the state basketball finals, the PIAA’s top administrator said there is a problem, but it’s not what public school advocates might think.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 7, 2024
Class 6A
North Allegheny’s depth on display in quest to regain WPIAL boys volleyball title
Opponents may have a dozen or so players in uniform for varsity matches, but North Allegheny boys volleyball coach Dan Long plans to use twice that many.
Here’s a new one for WPIAL athletic directors: Game called on account of solar eclipse
April 4, 2024
Athletic directors are not surprised when rain or snow wreaks havoc on spring sports schedules. But there’s another act of nature — one far more infrequent — that has WPIAL schools rescheduling games slated for Monday.
2024 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball All-Stars
Terrific 10
North Catholic’s Alayna Rocco named 2024 TribLive HSSN Girls Basketball Player of the Year
April 1, 2024
There was a time when a basketball gym was the last place Alayna Rocco wanted to be. As a coach’s daughter, she went anyway.
Lincoln Park’s Brandin Cummings, Meleek Thomas named 2024 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball Players of the Year
Brandin Cummings and Meleek Thomas form a dynamic duo for Lincoln Park’s boys basketball team, but they aren’t quite Batman and Robin.
TribLive H.S. baseball rankings for March 30, 2024
Class 6A
Behind ‘softball sisters,’ North Allegheny hopes to return to WPIAL finals
North Allegheny has a roster full of “softball sisters,” even though most of the girls aren’t actually related.
Aliquippa sues PIAA to prevent football team’s promotion to Class 5A
March 28, 2024
The school with the most wins in WPIAL football history is hoping its next big victory comes in a courtroom.
Blackhawk finds redemption in Hershey, wins PIAA girls basketball title with 1st-year coach
March 23, 2024
HERSHEY — Greg Huston wasn’t on the bench last March when Blackhawk lost in the state finals, but he understood the team’s heartache as well as anybody. He was here a dad watching his daughter from the Giant Center seats.
After winning state football title last fall, Aliquippa adds PIAA boys basketball championship
March 22, 2024
HERSHEY – Aliquippa finished off a rare PIAA double-double Friday by winning state football and basketball titles in the same school year. But on a roster full of two-sport athletes, this latest celebration was thanks in large part to a sophomore who has focused on only one.
PIAA Class 4A girls basketball championship preview: Blackhawk vs. Scranton Prep
PIAA Class 4A girls basketball championship
Behind Brandin Cummings’ ‘storybook ending,’ Lincoln Park repeats as PIAA Class 4A champ
March 21, 2024
HERSHEY — Brandin Cummings patiently held for the last shot of the first half, but the Lincoln Park senior didn’t wait around to see if his 3-pointer was good. He’d already turned his back on the shot and was headed toward the Giant Center locker room.
PIAA Class 2A boys basketball championship preview: Aliquippa vs. Holy Cross
PIAA Class 2A boys basketball championship
PIAA reveals brackets for 2024-25 football playoffs, likely altering WPIAL schedule at Acrisure Stadium
The four WPIAL football finals played at Acrisure Stadium likely will change this fall.
Imani Christian says goodbye to Class A with rout of Berlin Brothersvalley, 2nd straight PIAA title
HERSHEY — Imani Christian won a state title a year ago with a towering center in the middle, but this time, a couple of much smaller guards led the way.
PIAA Class 4A boys basketball championship preview: Lincoln Park vs. Archbishop Carroll
March 20, 2024
Lincoln Park is making a return trip to Hershey, where the team hopes to celebrate a second straight state title behind the talented tandem of Brandin Cummings and Meleek Thomas.
Franklin Regional gets revenge on Moon in PIAA Class 5A semifinals
March 18, 2024
Franklin Regional built a big lead Monday night only to see Moon erase it entirely, which was reminiscent of how the Panthers lost in the WPIAL final a few weeks ago.
Deer Lakes’ long run of playoff success ends with loss to Franklin
March 16, 2024
SHARON — Time was dwindling away and the deficit was large, but Deer Lakes decided to ramp up its pressure one more time in Saturday’s state playoff loss.
‘Plethora of arms’ makes North Allegheny baseball a team to reckon with
Some WPIAL baseball teams scramble to find enough pitching to cover their innings, but North Allegheny coach Andrew Heck has a much different dilemma. He’s hoping to find enough innings for all of his pitchers.
Moon outlasts Bethel Park, sets up WPIAL finals rematch in state semifinals
Yes, these are the state playoffs, but WPIAL champion Moon is back fighting its way through teams from its own league.
WPIAL releases football schedules for 2024, ’25 seasons
March 14, 2024
The WPIAL has released its football schedules for the next two seasons and Week 1 should be exciting.
Upper St. Clair embraces the madness, avenges loss to State College
March 13, 2024
JOHNSTOWN — This is the kind of March madness Upper St. Clair coach Danny Holzer likes most, a state basketball tournament where his Panthers are making a deep bracket run.
After injury to leading scorer, Shaler pulls together for PIAA win over Mechanicsburg
ALTOONA — Shaler leading scorer Keegan Smetanka was down on the court with a first-quarter ankle injury, so his teammates huddled quickly to discuss what to do next.
Colin Masten gets to rim, helps Franklin Regional to PIAA 5A quarterfinals
March 12, 2024
ALTOONA — Colin Masten wears jersey No. 1, which was fitting Tuesday night because of how many times he made folks say, “And one!”
When WPIAL makes realignment decisions aiming for competitive balance, critics emerge
WPIAL athletic directors received a survey from one of their colleagues Monday, seeking feedback about how the league makes its sections and schedules.
Butler senior Drew Griffith breaks national indoor high school track record in 2-mile
March 10, 2024
This time it counts.
Untimely scoring slumps end Baldwin’s historic season with PIAA loss to McDowell
March 9, 2024
The scoreboard in Baldwin’s gym showed a good news, bad news scenario for the Highlanders as the fourth quarter got underway Saturday.
Lincoln Park’s Brandin Cummings scores 28, says goodbye to beloved home court in PIAA win
Brandin Cummings kissed his hand before touching the Leopard logo on Lincoln Park’s basketball court, offering a kiss goodbye as his final home game was winding down.
Upper St. Clair ends Baldwin’s WPIAL run with resounding victory in Class 6A final
March 2, 2024
“Let’s go dance,” Upper St. Clair coach Danny Holzer told his players, guiding them back to their Petersen Events Center locker room where they bounced and sang along to “Y-M-C-A.”
North Allegheny divers follow different routes to WPIAL success
A gymnastics background can certainly help, but North Allegheny diving coach Patti McClure says she’s first looking for a kid with a “kamikaze” attitude.
Moon rallies past Franklin Regional to secure 5th WPIAL boys basketball title
March 1, 2024
One team got hot in the fourth quarter, and the other was not.
2024 WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball championship breakdown: Upper St. Clair vs. Baldwin
WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball championship
Butler AD: Agreement with PIAA will let football team play independent schedule
Butler has reached an agreement with the PIAA that will let the football team play an independent schedule this fall, the school’s athletic director said Friday.
Defensive-focused Lincoln Park beats Hampton to repeat as WPIAL champs
February 29, 2024
The WPIAL knows Meleek Thomas best as an elite scorer for the league’s highest-scoring team, a combination that brought Lincoln Park to Petersen Events Center on Thursday night.
2024 WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship breakdown: Lincoln Park vs. Hampton
WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship
2024 WPIAL Class A boys basketball championship breakdown: Imani Christian vs. Neighborhood Academy
WPIAL Class A boys basketball championship
PIAA defends Aliquippa decision in letter to legislators; state Rep. Matzie sees ‘hit job’
February 28, 2024
The PIAA in a letter to state legislators stood behind its decision to move the Aliquippa football team into a higher classification and rejected claims that the school district serves a more transient population than others.
Big man’s big game boosts Upper St. Clair past Central Catholic into WPIAL finals
February 27, 2024
Tyler Robbins’ first basket came a few minutes after halftime, but Upper St. Clair’s big man had already altered the outcome of Tuesday’s semifinal in other ways.
Deer Lakes boys defeat Neshannock in OT, advance to WPIAL Class 3A title game
February 26, 2024
The path wasn’t easy, but defending champion Deer Lakes is headed back to the WPIAL boys basketball finals after a second straight overtime win.
WPIAL sets schedule for basketball finals at Petersen Events Center
February 25, 2024
The WPIAL has finalized the championship schedule for the boys and girls basketball playoffs with dates and times for each of the 12 finals.
Hampton cools off Avonworth’s red-hot scorer for spot in WPIAL 4A final
February 24, 2024
Hampton’s Peter Kramer has faced his share of unorthodox defenses over the years, schemes designed specifically to shut him down as a scorer.
Defending champion Lincoln Park holds off Uniontown for return trip to WPIAL finals
Uniontown had a couple of good looks at a go-ahead 3-pointer early in the fourth quarter and had possession of the ball down three with only a minute left.
Nearly a national record holder, Butler’s Drew Griffith running the best he ever has
Drew Griffith ran two miles in a historic time, faster than the all-time indoor best for high school boys, but the Butler senior’s name won’t appear in any national record book.
Baldwin celebrates 1st WPIAL playoff win in 21 years with victory over North Allegheny
Baldwin boys basketball coach Jeff Ackermann took his team to look at the school’s trophy case before Friday night’s playoff game.
PSFCA announces rosters for 2024 East-West all-star football games
February 23, 2024
Forty WPIAL and City League football players were selected Friday to take part in a pair of East-West all-star games organized by the Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association.
WPIAL sets playoff sites, times for Monday’s basketball semifinals
The WPIAL has scheduled four semifinal doubleheaders in the basketball playoffs on Monday. The games are for Class 6A girls, 5A boys, 3A boys and A girls.
Shaler pulls out low-scoring win over Bethel Park with 1 basket in 4th quarter
The numbers on the scoreboard sure seemed to be stuck.
WPIAL sets playoff sites, times for Saturday’s basketball semifinals
February 22, 2024
The WPIAL has scheduled four basketball semifinal doubleheaders Saturday at Montour, Mt. Lebanon, North Allegheny and Peters Township.
Short-handed Uniontown gets defensive in WPIAL quarterfinal win over North Catholic
Uniontown was missing its big man in the middle, but against a small, speedy opponent, was that a blessing in disguise?
8 WPIAL all-stars selected for 67th annual Big 33 Football Classic
February 21, 2024
Eight WPIAL football players were among the 38 high school all-stars selected Wednesday to represent Pennsylvania in the 67th annual Big 33 Football Classic.
WPIAL announces playoff sites, times for Friday’s basketball quarterfinals
Fox Chapel, Highlands, Mt. Lebanon, North Allegheny and Peters Township will host doubleheaders for Friday’s quarterfinal games in the WPIAL basketball playoffs.
After taking job just last month, coach sets big goals for Bishop Canevin
Aaron McGee gave away some of his Bishop Canevin gear when he left for an assistant coaching job at Moon, but fortunately he held onto some shirts.
WPIAL announces playoff sites, times for Thursday’s basketball quarterfinals
February 20, 2024
The WPIAL released sites and times for Thursday’s boys and girls basketball quarterfinals.
Brandon Sensor resigns as Chartiers Valley boys basketball coach, citing lack of support from administration
Chartiers Valley boys basketball coach Brandon Sensor, who missed the final six weeks of the season on administrative leave, resigned Tuesday.
WPIAL reveals Aliquippa’s 5A conference, but football coach says ‘it’s not settled’
The WPIAL revealed an updated football alignment Monday that has Aliquippa sharing a Class 5A conference with Fox Chapel, North Hills, Penn Hills, Pine-Richland, Plum and Shaler.
WPIAL says Butler football must take conference schedule, reviving years-long dispute
A seemingly settled dispute between Butler and the PIAA was rekindled Monday when the WPIAL said the school’s football team must play a conference schedule next fall.
WPIAL sets conference, section alignment for next 2 fall seasons
February 19, 2024
The WPIAL wanted more competitive balance in its conferences and sections, so some teams might have a longer drive next season as a result.
WPIAL announces playoff sites, times for Wednesday’s basketball quarterfinals
February 18, 2024
The WPIAL has scheduled a slate of quarterfinal doubleheaders for Wednesday in the next round of the basketball playoffs.
North Allegheny boys put layoff to good use ahead of WPIAL playoffs
February 17, 2024
When other WPIAL basketball teams were probably prepping for their playoff openers, the North Allegheny boys took batting practice in the high school gym.
Rowan Carmichael’s 32 points lift Avonworth past Highlands in Class 4A 1st round
February 16, 2024
Highlands’ size can be an advantage, just not against a deceptively sturdy guard who made one big shot after another.
WPIAL playoff berth means a lot to Hillel Academy, a tiny Orthodox Jewish school in Squirrel Hill
February 14, 2024
As the boys basketball coach at Hillel Academy, Yoni Eglash has fielded a number of questions since his team joined the WPIAL two years ago.
Breaking down the 2024 WPIAL boys basketball playoff brackets
February 12, 2024
Class 6A
Mt. Lebanon hires football coach Greg Perry, former coach at Seton LaSalle, Keystone Oaks
Football coach Greg Perry has a new head coaching job that’s just down the road from his previous two.
WPIAL releases brackets for 2024 boys and girls basketball playoffs
When the WPIAL basketball committee met Monday morning to seed the playoff brackets, there was little debate about the No. 1 seeds.
WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel forecast the 2024 boys basketball playoff pairings
February 10, 2024
The 2024 WPIAL boys basketball playoff field is set with 87 teams in the six classifications.
TribLive HSSN WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 11, 2024
WPIAL girls basketball rankings
TribLive HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 11, 2024
WPIAL boys basketball rankings
‘The real deal’: North Allegheny set to host 1st WPIAL girls wrestling championships
North Allegheny will play host to a Western Pennsylvania girls wrestling championship once again, but this time the medals will says “WPIAL.”
Central Catholic grabs section title away from North Allegheny with last-second 3-point play
February 9, 2024
Central Catholic had trailed for almost the entire game, but a layup and foul shot by sophomore Enzo Khalil with seven-tenths of a second left Friday night lifted the Vikings to a dramatic 58-57 victory over North Allegheny to win the section title.
Central Catholic wide receiver Peter Gonzalez receives NFL Latino Youth Honors award
This is awards season for the NFL, and one went to a high school senior from the WPIAL. Central Catholic’s Peter Gonzalez received an inaugural honor that recognized his football talents and his Hispanic heritage.
Imani Christian 4-star junior Dayshaun Burnett makes verbal commitment to Penn State
February 7, 2024
Dayshaun Burnett received his first college offer from Penn State almost two years ago, but the Imani Christian junior had a Nittany Lions connection that went back way further.
Central Catholic wins black-and-blue battle with Butler
There were two separate stoppages to clean blood off the court at Central Catholic’s Alumni Hall on Tuesday night, showing just how rough a section game between Central and Butler can get.
WPIAL to release new football conferences, updated sections for other fall sports
February 5, 2024
The wait is almost over for WPIAL football teams eager to take a look at the new conferences for the 2024 and ’25 seasons.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending February 4, 2024
February 3, 2024
WPIAL boys basketball rankings
Trib HSSN girls basketball rankings for Feb. 3, 2024
WPIAL girls basketball rankings
‘Excellence has to be earned’: North Allegheny swimmers aim to maintain streak of WPIAL championships
The North Allegheny swimming team owns a WPIAL championship streak that’s older than some kids on the roster.
Mt. Lebanon stakes claim in 6A with win over rival Upper St. Clair
Packed together tightly in a sold-out gym, the Mt. Lebanon student section chanted, “We run 6A,” in the final minutes of Friday’s win over rival Upper St. Clair.
Exquisite timing helps Shaler avenge loss to Woodland Hills
January 31, 2024
“Exquisite” was the fancy word Brandon London’s teammates urged him to work into his postgame interview.
Bishop Canevin fires 1st-place boys basketball coach in middle of his 1st season
January 29, 2024
The Bishop Canevin boys basketball team is close to clinching a section title, but the Crusaders will finish their season with a different coaching staff.
Aliquippa grad, current 5A coach understands Quips’ concerns with bump up in class
January 28, 2024
Can Aliquippa compete in Class 5A football? Yes, says Pine-Richland coach Jon LeDonne, but he also considers the Quips’ concerns about player health to be valid.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 28, 2024
January 27, 2024
WPIAL girls basketball rankings
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 28, 2024
WPIAL boys basketball rankings
Lincoln Park’s ‘big two’ share the wealth in win over North Catholic
The motto on Lincoln Park’s shirts says “one more,” which coach Mike Bariski translates into “one more pass.”
PIAA officials acknowledge competitive balance formula has ‘room for conversation’ in future
January 26, 2024
A football team that reaches the state finals or semifinals two years in a row “is the cream of the crop in that class,” said PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi, explaining why health and safety concerns are excluded as grounds for appeal under the competitive-balance rule.
6 WPIAL quarterbacks selected as finalists for Willie Thrower Award
January 25, 2024
WPIAL champions Nolan DiLucia of Peters Township, Logan Kushner of North Allegheny and Matt Seig of Fort Cherry were three of the six quarterbacks named Thursday as finalists for the Willie Thrower Award.
PIAA rejects Farrell’s request to join WPIAL
January 24, 2024
A week after the WPIAL rejected Farrell’s attempt to join the district, the PIAA also denied the Mercer County school’s request to transfer to the WPIAL.
Aliquippa forced to move to Class 5A football after PIAA rejects appeal
MECHANICSBURG — If the PIAA believes five transfers gave the Aliquippa football team a competitive advantage, Quips coach Mike Warfield wants to know how.
New coach Marty Spieler brings unique resume, complete with a Kelce tie, to South Fayette
January 23, 2024
The coaching career of Marty Spieler once crossed paths with the Kelce brothers, but, no, Taylor Swift probably won’t show up at South Fayette games this fall.
Gatorade picks Mt. Lebanon’s Logan St. John Kletter as top girls cross country runner in Pa.
Reigning state champion Logan St. John Kletter of Mt. Lebanon was named the Gatorade Pennsylvania girls cross country athlete of the year, extending the WPIAL’s winning streak to four.
South Fayette poised to hire Marty Spieler as football coach
January 22, 2024
South Fayette is prepared to make Marty Spieler the school’s next football coach, pending board approval Tuesday night.
PIAA discussing eliminating overtime in regular-season soccer games
January 21, 2024
The PIAA might decide this week to eliminate overtime from regular-season high school soccer, taking a nod from NCAA rules and international norms. If approved, regular-season games tied after regulation would finish as a draw.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 21, 2024
January 20, 2024
WPIAL girls basketball rankings
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending January 21, 2024
WPIAL boys basketball rankings
Thought to be moving up to 3A for next 2 years, Westinghouse will instead play Class A football
January 18, 2024
City League champion Westinghouse is dropping to Class A football next season after successfully avoiding a promotion under the PIAA competitive-balance rule.
Aliquippa football still ticketed for 5A after unsuccessful initial appeal to PIAA
January 17, 2024
Aliquippa’s initial appeal to the PIAA was unsuccessful, so the football team remains headed to a higher classification under the competitive-balance rule.
Former Clairton football star Tyler Boyd headlines 2024 WPIAL Hall of Fame class
Nobody in WPIAL history won more consistently than Clairton’s Tyler Boyd, whose football teams were part of a state-record winning streak that eventually reached 66 games.
WPIAL places Mohawk football on 2 years of probation for alleged racial slurs toward Burrell players
January 16, 2024
The WPIAL has placed the Mohawk football team on probation for two years after allegations that racial slurs were used in a playoff game against Burrell in November.
WPIAL board unanimously rejects Farrell’s request to rejoin district
The WPIAL board voted unanimously Tuesday to deny Farrell’s request to join the league as a member school, citing the cost of transportation and tight athletic department budgets.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 14, 2024
January 13, 2024
WPIAL girls basketball rankings
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 14, 2024
WPIAL boys basketball rankings
North Allegheny girls hope January road trips make Tigers a tough ‘out’ later this season
No, the North Allegheny girls basketball team hasn’t left the WPIAL, even though its schedule certainly looks like the Tigers moved closer to Harrisburg.
Avonworth sheds underdog label with section-shaking win over No. 3 Montour
In a pregame talk with his players, Avonworth basketball coach Mike Mancuso embraced the idea that the WPIAL saw them as underdogs in their own section.
Butler won’t rejoin WPIAL football; decision nearing on Farrell’s request to return
January 12, 2024
How many football teams will the WPIAL have next season? That number continues to fluctuate.
North Allegheny linebacker Tyree Alualu commits to Temple
North Allegheny senior Tyree Alualu, an all-conference linebacker whose father played for the Pittsburgh Steelers, committed Thursday to Temple.
Even at the high school level, football coaches take measures to avoid signs being stolen
January 7, 2024
There was a commotion in the bleachers at a WPIAL football game one night when some opposing coaches had their notes fall from the press box window.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending January 7, 2024
Class 6A
Barrage of 3-pointers — including 8 by Donovan Carney — leads Butler past New Castle
January 5, 2024
Butler’s Donovan Carney was making shots from far beyond the arc, teammate Tayt Lucas hit a couple of 3-pointers and Kyle Casteel came off the bench shooting 3s with no hesitation.
PIAA policy won’t let Aliquippa argue health and safety in rejecting move to Class 5A
Two years ago, Aliquippa argued relentlessly that it was too dangerous to force the small-school Quips to play Class 5A football and ultimately the school won its PIAA appeal.
State representative asks whether PIAA needs ‘overhaul,’ proposes legislation to investigate
A Western Pennsylvania legislator and longtime member of the state Athletic Oversight Committee is asking whether the PIAA needs an overhaul.
Wild Things Park to host WPIAL baseball finals through 2027
Wild Things Park will remain as host of the WPIAL baseball finals through at least the 2027 season.
McGuffey football coach Ed Dalton resigns after 12 years, not ready for retirement
January 4, 2024
Ed Dalton is stepping down after 12 seasons as McGuffey’s football coach, but don’t mistake his resignation as an early retirement.
PIAA plans to move Aliquippa football to Class 5A under competitive-balance rule
In a move coach Mike Warfield called déjà vu, the PIAA has notified Aliquippa that its football team will be forced up another classification before next season.
East Allegheny football coach Dom Pecora resigns after 8 straight playoff appearances
January 3, 2024
Winning a conference title and reaching the WPIAL semifinals will always be two of the happiest moments of his life, says East Allegheny football coach Dom Pecora, who is stepping down after 11 seasons with the Wildcats.
Fast start leads Hampton past Highlands in key section clash
January 2, 2024
Sometimes games are decided by a fourth-quarter run, but Hampton showed Tuesday that the first few minutes can be just as crucial.
Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings for Dec. 30, 2023
Class 6A
Mike Collodi resigns as Mt. Lebanon football coach after 1 season
December 27, 2023
Less than a year after becoming Mt. Lebanon’s football coach, Mike Collodi is reluctantly stepping down. He resigned Wednesday after one season, largely, he said, because he saw no path to a teaching job in the district.
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Class 6A
WPIAL Class 6A
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Western Hills
Western Hills Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Tri-County South
Tri-County South Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Parkway
Parkway Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Northeast
Northeast Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Midwestern
Midwestern Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Interstate
Interstate Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Greater Allegheny
Greater Allegheny Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Eastern
Eastern Conference
2023 All-City League Football Team
Pittsburgh City League
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Century
Century Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Black Hills
Black Hills Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Big Seven
Big Seven Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Big East
Big East Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Big 7
Big 7 Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Allegheny Six
Allegheny Six
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Allegheny 6
Allegheny 6 Conference
2023 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Allegheny
Allegheny Conference
WPIAL girls basketball rankings for week ending Dec. 24, 2023
December 23, 2023
Class 6A
WPIAL boys basketball rankings for the week ending Dec. 24, 2023
Class 6A
Central Catholic’s Xxavier Thomas gets offer he ‘always wanted,’ commits to Penn State
December 21, 2023
Xxavier Thomas says he was ready to commit to Penn State since visiting the campus a year ago, but the Central Catholic junior first needed an offer from the Nittany Lions.
Western Pa.’s top football prospects for the Class of 2025
December 20, 2023
For college coaches recruiting the WPIAL, linebacker has become a position of strength.
2023 TribLive HSSN Terrific 25 Football All-Stars
Here’s a look at the TribLive High School Sports Network’s Terrific 25 football all-stars for the 2023 season.
Early signing day for 2024: WPIAL football players announce Division I commitments
High school football recruits used to have to wait until February to sign a national letter of intent, but that changed starting in 2017, when the NCAA added an early signing period for Division I football.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 17, 2023
Class 6A
Just like Revis, state champion Aliquippa football players try to transition quickly to hoops
December 15, 2023
Aliquippa basketball coach Nick Lackovich, with a laugh, pointed out that sophomore Qalil Goode was doing his best Darrelle Revis impression.
District 10 grants Farrell’s release request, moving school closer to WPIAL return
December 13, 2023
The District 10 committee has granted Farrell’s request to leave that PIAA district, moving the Mercer County school one step closer to rejoining the WPIAL.
PIAA football championship notebook: Despite criticism, St. Joseph’s Prep coach proud of powerhouse team’s achievements
December 11, 2023
St. Joseph’s Prep football has dominated the state’s largest classification for over a decade, and the Philadelphia team’s coach isn’t about to apologize for the school’s success.
North Allegheny loses to defending champ St. Joseph’s Prep in mercy rule state final
December 9, 2023
MECHANICSBURG — In the 11 years since North Allegheny last reached the PIAA finals, the landscape in the state’s largest classification has shifted to the east.
North Allegheny embraces ‘who we are’ entering state championship clash with St. Joseph’s Prep
The team North Allegheny thought most about this week, the roster of players the Tigers maybe focused on more than any other, was North Allegheny.
Imhotep Charter too much for Peters Township in Class 5A state championship game
December 8, 2023
MECHANICSBURG — Peters Township’s defense had to tackle a running back headed to Georgia, a sophomore back with SEC offers and a freshman wideout already courted by Pitt and Penn State.
Southern Columbia’s 99-yard drive dashes Westinghouse’s state championship hopes
MECHANICSBURG — It was heartache again for the ‘House.
Aliquippa dominates Dallas to become school’s 1st undefeated state championship team
December 7, 2023
MECHANICSBURG — Not Ty Law. Not Darrelle Revis. None of the all-time greats in Aliquippa history had ever celebrated an undefeated state championship. That perfect ending had eluded the Quips five times before, including just a year ago here at Cumberland Valley.
PIAA will let Woodland Hills, Charleroi fix enrollment mistakes, avoid promotion to higher classifications
December 6, 2023
The PIAA will let Woodland Hills and Charleroi fix mistakes the schools made when submitting their enrollments, errors that would’ve forced their teams into higher classifications.
Not concerned with any curse, bad luck or superstitions, Aliquippa aims to cap undefeated season with PIAA title
Aliquippa has an imperfect history in the state football finals that’s hard to explain.
Imani Christian basketball moving to 6A in 2024, football also playing up
December 4, 2023
Imani Christian is one of the smallest schools in WPIAL basketball, but the Saints want to compete with the big boys.
North Allegheny ends 11-year wait, moves on to state finals vs. powerhouse St. Joseph’s Prep
December 2, 2023
ALTOONA — North Allegheny is headed to the PIAA finals for the first time since 2012, and waiting for the Tigers will be a team that’s dominated the state for the past decade.
Aliquippa secures 3rd straight state finals appearance with win over Selinsgrove
December 1, 2023
EBENSBURG — There was some fourth-quarter suspense for Aliquippa as the final minutes ticked away in the state semifinal Friday night.
Unheralded QB runs his family’s business — Aliquippa’s offense — with championship efficiency
November 30, 2023
In a jubilant locker room where the players were even louder than the cranked-up music, Aliquippa quarterback Quentin Goode paused to think about the WPIAL football title he’d just won and why it felt different than his first two.
PIAA releases updated enrollments, classifications for 2024-25, 2025-26 seasons
November 28, 2023
The PIAA has released updated enrollment numbers for all sports, giving high school teams their first look at classifications for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons.
Potential enrollment error has Woodland Hills moving to WPIAL 6A football
Woodland Hills may have misreported its enrollment numbers to the PIAA, causing its sports teams to jump into higher classifications starting next year.
20 times tough: Aliquippa handles McKeesport to add to record total of WPIAL championships
November 24, 2023
Cameron Lindsey could sum up Aliquippa’s night in just a few words: “Three for three.”
In 16th straight WPIAL title game appearance, Aliquippa to meet worthy adversary in McKeesport
November 22, 2023
As a first-year coach, Matt Miller led McKeesport to the 2016 WPIAL finals, a rapid ascent that maybe skewed his perception of the playoffs.
No guarantee WPIAL welcomes back Farrell, if District 10 approves school’s transfer
November 20, 2023
Farrell wants to come back to the WPIAL after almost two decades in District 10, but a potential homecoming for the Steelers is no guarantee.
WPIAL continues investigation of racial slurs in Mohawk-Burrell football game
The WPIAL investigation is ongoing into allegations that racial slurs were used in a Burrell-Mohawk football game.
With 6 TDs, North Allegheny QB Logan Kushner shines brightest in WPIAL title win over Central Catholic
November 18, 2023
“Best player on the field” was how North Allegheny coach Art Walker described his quarterback Logan Kushner.
Aliquippa headed ‘home’ to WPIAL finals, extending championship game streak to 16 years
Whether the stadium on the North Shore is called Heinz Field or Acrisure Stadium doesn’t much matter to Aliquippa’s football players, since they have their own nickname for it.
Offense steps to forefront when Central Catholic, North Allegheny meet again for Class 6A title
November 17, 2023
The traditional style of a Central Catholic vs. North Allegheny game was always defined by the defenses. Just a year ago, they combined for a 7-3 score in a field-position battle.
Peters Township eyes 1st WPIAL title, but defending champion Pine-Richland stands in the way
This was just another week of practice for Peters Township’s football team, exactly like any of the others the Indians had this season.
5 things to watch: WPIAL playoff weekend split between finals, semifinals
November 16, 2023
Pine-Richland will eat breakfast together a few hours before kickoff, part of a pregame routine Saturday that differs from most weeks.
4 WPIAL football championships will be televised with support from Steelers
November 14, 2023
The four WPIAL football championship games held at Acrisure Stadium will be televised this year, thanks to support from the Pittsburgh Steelers, the WPIAL announced Tuesday.
Coaches association names 2023 WPIAL field hockey all-stars
November 13, 2023
The WPIAL Field Hockey Coaches Association announced postseason honors Monday, including all-stars for each classification and a 24-person all-WPIAL team.
Farrell wants to rejoin WPIAL after nearly 2 decades in District 10
Farrell athletic director and football coach Anthony Pegues calls himself “a WPIAL guy,” since the Steelers played here in the WPIAL when he was on the team.
5 things we learned in Week 11 of the WPIAL football season: Semifinals feature new blood
November 11, 2023
Some teams are penciled into the semifinals before the WPIAL playoffs even start. Aliquippa, after winning Friday, will make its 17th straight appearance in the final four.
WPIAL announces playoff sites for football semifinals
WPIAL football playoffs
Touchdown with 2 seconds left sends defending champ Pine-Richland back to WPIAL finals
November 10, 2023
Pine-Richland was two seconds away from a season-ending loss when freshman Aaron “Oobi” Strader narrowly crossed the goal line on a touchdown run that has the defending champion headed back to the WPIAL finals.
5 things to watch in WPIAL Week 11: Regular season rematches dominate playoff schedule
About two months ago, Penn Hills coach Charles Morris made a prediction before he left the field at Pine-Richland’s stadium.
WPIAL Equity Council to review Burrell’s allegations that Mohawk football players used racist remarks
November 9, 2023
The WPIAL will have a role in resolving the dispute between Burrell and Mohawk, whose football teams played a game marred by allegations of racial slurs.
WPIAL allowing Burrell, Mohawk to settle racist taunts dispute
November 8, 2023
The WPIAL is hopeful Mohawk and Burrell can resolve allegations of racial taunts involving their football teams without the league’s intervention.
Judge grants Jonna Burke preliminary injunction letting basketball coach avoid PIAA suspension
A federal judge has granted Jonna Burke’s request for a preliminary injunction, a legal victory that lets the Shady Side Academy girls basketball coach avoid a PIAA suspension for now.
Burrell football coach says playoff opponent used racial slurs, his protest led to ejection
November 5, 2023
Burrell football coach Shawn Liotta said his players were targeted with racial slurs in a game Friday against Mohawk and that he was ejected after confronting game officials about it.
North Allegheny trying to make most of calm before the playoff storm
The North Allegheny football team didn’t have a game in the first week of the playoffs, but that doesn’t mean the Tigers took a week off.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 10: Wildcat formation works for WPIAL teams
November 4, 2023
The wildcat formation is almost as old as WPIAL football itself, but the run-oriented offense is proving hard to stop.
WPIAL announces sites, times for Friday’s football playoff games
WPIAL football playoffs
No. 5 Moon thwarts final drive, runs past Gateway in WPIAL 5A quarterfinals
Moon ran the football almost 70 times Friday night, and Gateway coach Don Holl marveled that not once were the Tigers flagged for holding.
WPIAL rules North Catholic baseball player ineligible after transfer
November 2, 2023
The WPIAL ruled North Catholic junior Jake McKee ineligible for the upcoming baseball season after transferring from New Brighton.
5 things to watch in WPIAL Week 10: Run vs. pass option to decide Class 5A playoff openers
The run-pass option is a staple for offenses nowadays and this year’s WPIAL Class 5A bracket is one big RPO.
2-time state champion Joe Rossi resigns as South Fayette football coach
November 1, 2023
Joe Rossi says his wife, Karley, should teach a course for coaches’ wives. The Rossis have four kids, they’re all involved in sports, and he was often busy as South Fayette’s football coach.
WPIAL adding teams to Class 6A football; PIAA releases enrollment parameters for next 2 school years
October 31, 2023
The WPIAL will have more Class 6A football teams next season with Hempfield and Norwin set to join the league’s big-school classification.
Hopewell football coach Matt Weiss resigns after 5 seasons
Hopewell football coach Matt Weiss resigned Monday after five seasons with the Vikings, a program that has struggled significantly for more than a decade.
WPIAL shows love for traditionally tough Parkway, gives home games to 4 teams
October 29, 2023
West Allegheny’s football team rode on a bus for more than an hour a year ago when the Indians opened the WPIAL playoffs in Fayette County.
Breaking down the WPIAL football playoffs: Favorites, challengers, predictions
October 28, 2023
Favorite: Central Catholic reached the WPIAL finals in nine of the past 10 seasons, winning five titles in that span. This year’s team outscored conference opponents 190-35, led by senior QB Payton Wehner (2,300 yards, 31 TDs). WR Peter Gonzalez (Penn State), LB/TE Cole Sullivan (Wisconsin) and LB Anthony Speca (Penn State) are all Big Ten recruits. First-year coach Ryan Lehmeier won WPIAL titles as a Pine-Richland assistant.
Trib HSSN high school football rankings, Week ending Oct. 29, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
WPIAL reveals pairings for 2023 football playoffs
Neshannock is already the Midwestern Conference champion, but to reach the WPIAL finals the Lancers will need to win the Century Conference, too.
North Allegheny plans ‘Learn to Row’ event to teach students, prospective team members
Bailey Chick wasn’t someone who grew up rowing, and in fact didn’t try the sport until she was a college student at Temple. But one day the rowing team there was inviting novices to practice, so she went and gave it a try.
Final WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2023 football playoff pairings
Let the guesswork begin.
Aliquippa uses 1-play touchdown drives to top rival Central Valley, clinch Parkway title
The biggest worry for a defense facing Aliquippa isn’t a long, grinding touchdown drive that eats the clock and wears you away physically.
5 things to watch in WPIAL Week 9: Head-to-head matchups to decide 9 conference titles
October 27, 2023
The wait is over.
Conference title hopes add heft to Aliquippa, Central Valley rivalry
One of coach Mike Warfield’s favorite sayings compares the fragility of success with that of a crystal glass, saying both can “break into 1,000 pieces” if you don’t hold onto them.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2023 football playoff pairings
October 26, 2023
Pairing the WPIAL football brackets is a difficult job once the playoff field is set, but it’s much, much harder when 15 spots are still undecided. That’s the situation now.
WPIAL announces pairings for 2023 field hockey playoffs
October 24, 2023
Defending WPIAL field hockey champions Pine-Richland and Penn-Trafford each earned No. 1 seeds Tuesday when the WPIAL playoff brackets were announced.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 8: WPIAL playoff hopefuls shake off early-season losses
October 21, 2023
Not only did Keystone Oaks lose three of its first four games, the Eagles also started the season by losing their best player to injury.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 22, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
‘Young and hungry’ North Allegheny takes ice with new-look roster
Only a sophomore, Luke Walkauskas skates on one of North Allegheny’s top lines, where he’s joined by two more 10th graders in Brendan White and Eddie Scherer.
Pine-Richland’s punishing ground game too much for Woodland Hills
There is nothing fancy about Pine-Richland’s wildcat offense and by now, it could hardly catch anyone by surprise.
Former Imani Christian standout Alier Maluk commits to Florida State
October 20, 2023
Former WPIAL basketball player Alier Maluk, who won a state title last winter with Imani Christian, announced his commitment to Florida State on Friday.
5 things to watch in WPIAL Week 8: Traditionally tough Parkway lives up to reputation
The Parkway Conference was traditionally considered among the best battles in WPIAL football, and this year’s version has lived up to that reputation.
Close friends to match wits when Pine-Richland, Woodland Hills meet in critical Class 5A clash
First-year Woodland Hills coach Brian Tarrant says he probably wouldn’t have his job without help from friend Jon LeDonne.
Former Kiski Area athlete Kyrell Hutcherson suing school district, WPIAL, PIAA, claiming racial discrimination
October 19, 2023
A former high school athlete who defeated the WPIAL and PIAA in court almost three years ago has sued the organizations again, this time saying they violated his civil rights by racially discriminating against him.
Steelers, NFL roots run deep with North Allegheny football team
October 15, 2023
There usually is a Super Bowl champion or two somewhere in the crowd at North Allegheny football games and it’s been that way for about a decade.
Coin flip decides final 2 spots in City League football playoffs
Allderdice, Brashear and Perry finished tied in the City League standings, which was a problem since only two could qualify for the football playoffs.
5 things we learned in Week 7 of WPIAL high school football: Long playoff drought over
October 14, 2023
One of the WPIAL’s longest active playoff droughts is over, and another long streak also could end this year.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 15, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
Bruising McKeesport running back Spell spells trouble for Gateway
October 13, 2023
McKeesport fullback Keith Spell was losing steam on a 79-yard touchdown run, so the senior turned, stiff-armed the nearest tackler to the ground and continued into the end zone.
5 things to watch in Week 7: How will WPIAL teams approach late-season nonconference matchups?
The WPIAL schedule-makers gave McKeesport a nonconference game this week, which some coaches might dread this late in the season.
Might Penn Hills try to ‘simulate’ winning strategy in matchup with Central Catholic?
October 12, 2023
Needless to say, Penn Hills was interested in watching game film from Central Catholic’s loss last week, since that was the first time the Vikings had looked vulnerable all season.
Moon coach Bill Pfeifer nears 500th win, an unprecedented feat in WPIAL girls soccer
October 10, 2023
Undefeated state champion, national coach of the year and the winningest coach in Pennsylvania girls soccer history. Moon’s Bill Pfeifer was all of those last fall and says he thought about retiring on top after a season that couldn’t have gone any better.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 6: Trinity finds diamond with signature win
October 7, 2023
There’s a popular meme that shows two miners digging for diamonds, but one gives up within inches of striking it rich.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 7, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
North Allegheny shakes off rivalry loss, focuses on future
North Allegheny’s football stadium was filled nearly to capacity for a hyped-up game with rival Central Catholic. There was an electric atmosphere in the crowd, yet the Tigers ended the night feeling drained after a lopsided loss.
Carter Shanafelt scores 4 times as Peters Township rockets past Moon
Speedy receiver Carter Shanafelt was in such a hurry Friday night that he started a second-half rally before halftime.
Shady Side Academy forfeits football game against Knoch
October 6, 2023
Shady Side Academy has forfeited Friday night’s football game against Knoch because of an illness among “several players,” the school announced hours before kickoff.
‘Outside of the box’ defense has Peters Township ranked No. 1 in WPIAL 5A
Peters Township’s T.J. Plack is an offensive-minded head coach of a high-scoring team that averages five touchdowns a week, yet he raves about a defense he calls special.
5 things to watch in Week 6: As NFL mourns, WPIAL remembers ‘coach’ Dick Butkus
Dick Butkus became legendary as one of the fiercest linebackers in NFL history, but folks around the WPIAL might remember him as “Coach” Butkus.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 5: Ground game pays off in win column
September 30, 2023
One of the WPIAL’s leading rushers shook off an ankle injury and returned to the field Friday night, helping West Greene’s offense run its way to victory.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 30. 2023
WPIAL football rankings
For North Allegheny cross country team, it’s a matter of staying the course
When it comes to putting down cones, North Allegheny might be second only to PennDOT. There are always plenty lining the school’s cross county course in North Park.
Wildcat attack sparks dominant 3rd quarter as Avonworth runs away from West Mifflin
There was no fiery halftime speech, but instead, one offensive adjustment had Avonworth looking like a different team in the third quarter.
5 things to watch in WPIAL Week 5: Finally, every team has reached conference play
September 29, 2023
WPIAL teams are now five weeks into the football season and 14 schools had yet to play a conference game.
Fear the Antelopes: Under-the-radar Avonworth to meet West Mifflin in key conference clash
September 28, 2023
Would there be more buzz for a type of cat, bear or angry bird?
Suspended Shady Side Academy coach Jonna Burke files lawsuit against PIAA
September 27, 2023
Shady Side Academy girls basketball coach Jonna Burke, who’s facing a one-year suspension for an alleged recruiting violation, has sued the PIAA seeking an injunction that would let her coach.
North Catholic junior Brady O’Hara commits to Penn State: ‘White Out sold it for me’
September 26, 2023
North Catholic junior Brady O’Hara has visited Penn State’s campus enough times that he’s almost lost count.
Aliquippa junior Tiqwai Hayes commits to Penn State
September 25, 2023
When Penn State assistant coach Terry Smith visited an Aliquippa football practice three years ago, he approached Quips coach Mike Warfield with a question.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 4: Brownsville wins for 1st time in 4 seasons
September 23, 2023
The drive home from Cupples Stadium is about an hour, but good news travels faster than Brownsville’s team bus.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 24, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
North Allegheny boys soccer team living up to standards set by 2nd-year coach
This is year two for Manuel Montero, and the North Allegheny boys soccer coach says there’s a much greater comfort level for the team this fall, and it shows.
Central Catholic makes statement, handles North Allegheny
September 22, 2023
There already were reasons to believe Central Catholic was the team to beat in the WPIAL, starting with a roster that’s heavy in major-college recruits.
North Allegheny, Central Catholic are familiar rivals, but this No. 1 vs. No. 2 clash has different feel
North Allegheny’s practices were noticeably faster this week, said coach Art Walker, but the Tigers weren’t getting off the field any earlier. It’s just that the defense was working at a quicker pace.
5 things to watch in WPIAL Week 4: Schedule pits No. 1 vs. No. 2 in top-ranked matchups
If a No. 1 vs. No. 2 matchup wasn’t enough excitement for a Friday night, this week also is homecoming at Peters Township, so football coach T.J. Plack had a message for his players.
Laurel school board limits girls sports at its facilities to athletes with ‘XX chromosomes’
September 20, 2023
Citing concerns over safety and fairness, one WPIAL school district has adopted a gender policy that limits girls sports to biological females.
WPIAL says discipline for ‘egregious’ Imani Christian-Steel Valley fight rests with schools
September 18, 2023
“Egregious” was how WPIAL executive director Scott Seltzer described Friday’s fight between Imani Christian and Steel Valley football players, but he was optimistic there’d be a resolution without WPIAL intervention.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 3: Turnarounds abound this year
September 16, 2023
Call this the year of the turnaround.
Fight mars final minute of Imani Christian-Steel Valley football game
The WPIAL will look into an on-field fight that marred the final minute of Friday night’s football game between Imani Christian and Steel Valley.
WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 17, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
No. 4 Beaver has right answers for defeating No. 5 South Park in Western Hills opener
Amari Jackson was upset for about 15 seconds and Beaver teammate Qualan Cain felt down for no more than 20.
5 things to watch in WPIAL Week 3: Preseason contenders cope with 0-3 starts
September 15, 2023
West Mifflin started the season ranked second in WPIAL Class 3A, but the Titans are still winless after three weeks.
Westinghouse tops University Prep, but ‘made too many mistakes’ for state title aspirations
Westinghouse sophomore Kyshawn Robinson scored twice and senior Sincere Shannon forced a fumble with a strip sack, but neither was all too happy.
PIAA changes how it counts students, likely increasing public school enrollment numbers
September 13, 2023
Public schools will see their enrollments increase in the next few months, at least according to PIAA statistics.
NIL violations will leave high school athletes ineligible under new PIAA policy
Pennsylvania high school athletes who repeatedly violate name, image and likeness rules would lose their eligibility entirely under penalties adopted Wednesday by the PIAA.
5 things we learned in Week 2: Rough night for defending WPIAL champions
September 11, 2023
Week 2 was a rough night for defending WPIAL champions.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 10, 2023
September 9, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
Injured Laurel Highlands football player Antwan Black, flown by medical helicopter, ‘in good spirits’
As injured teammate Antwan Black Jr. was on his way to the hospital, first by ambulance and then by helicopter, Laurel Highlands players had a tough decision to make.
North Allegheny reloads lineup in quest for 7th straight PIAA volleyball title
First-time starters on the North Allegheny girls volleyball team surely have more seasoning than most since they’ve practiced for years against a state championship lineup.
Quarterback Julian Dugger shows his versatility as No. 1 Penn Hills holds off No. 2 Pine-Richland
It’s no exaggeration when Penn Hills quarterback Julian Dugger says he did everything he could to win this one.
5 things to watch in Week 2: WPIAL teams are winning with multiple QBs
September 8, 2023
There’s an old saying about football teams with two starting quarterbacks actually having none, but Thomas Jefferson coach Bill Cherpak clearly disagrees.
‘Champs until proven otherwise:’ Penn Hills challenges Pine-Richland in No. 1 vs. 2 clash
September 7, 2023
Penn Hills is ranked No. 1 in WPIAL football, but Pine-Richland is the reigning conference, WPIAL and PIAA champion until someone takes those titles away.
Aliquippa running back Tiqwai Hayes narrows college options to Top 8
September 5, 2023
College football teams from the ACC, Big Ten and Big 12 are among the eight favorites to land Aliquippa running back Tiqwai Hayes.
5 things we learned in high school football Week 1: Longtime Bethel Park coach returns but on opposite sideline
September 2, 2023
Seeing Jeff Metheny at Bethel Park’s football stadium isn’t unusual, but seeing the longtime Black Hawks coach wearing Mt. Lebanon colors certainly is.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 3, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
Mt. Lebanon tops rival Bethel Park in overtime, avenging last year’s OT loss
September 1, 2023
Mt. Lebanon thought they’d won and then were sure they’d lost, so the surprised smile junior Noah Schaerli showed afterward summed up Friday’s win perfectly.
Bethel Park, Mt. Lebanon ignore talk of ‘down year’ after coaching change, graduations
New head coaches. Rosters hurt by graduation. Bethel Park and Mt. Lebanon came into this football season with similar situations.
5 things to watch in Week 1: A red-letter day in Aliquippa as the new Heinz Field opens
Not only is Aliquippa’s new football stadium named Heinz Field, but like its North Shore namesake, the Red Zone should be popular.
5 things we learned in Week Zero: New coaches find success quickly
August 26, 2023
Central Catholic players were kneeling around new coach Ryan Lehmeier in a postgame circle when longtime Vikings assistant Ron Fuchs spoke up.
Trib HSSN WPIAL high school football rankings: Week ending Aug. 27, 2023
WPIAL football rankings
Central Catholic routs Woodland Hills in Ryan Lehmeier’s debut as Vikings coach
There’s no question Ryan Lehmeier’s reputation as a motivator and sharp offensive mind enticed Central Catholic to hire him as a first-time head coach.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
August 24, 2023
TribLive HSSN broke down the top players at one position per day leading up to Week Zero. Now, here’s a look at the top coaching changes for the 2023 season.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the specialists
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top specialists for the 2023 season.
High school teams go high tech: Local football programs invest in innovative tools
North Allegheny’s Art Walker has coached long enough to remember when filming practice required a bulky camcorder and tapes.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the safeties
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top safeties for the 2023 season.
Bishop Canevin gets back to basics in quest to return to top of WPIAL Class A heap
August 23, 2023
Bishop Canevin coach Rich Johnson believes his team will be boring at times this season, and he’s excited to see it.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the cornerbacks
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top cornerbacks for the 2023 season.
PIAA upholds 1-year suspension for Shady Side Academy girls basketball coach Jonna Burke
August 22, 2023
The PIAA sided with the WPIAL on Tuesday and upheld the one-year suspension of Shady Side Academy girls basketball coach Jonna Burke.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the linebackers
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top linebackers for the 2023 season.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the defensive line
August 21, 2023
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top defensive linemen for the 2023 season.
With roster loaded with skill, Clairton planning to return to WPIAL championship picture
August 20, 2023
Call it what you want, football in shorts or touch football, but Clairton coach Wayne Wade sees some value in 7-on-7 tournaments, so his Bears spend the summer competing in them.
2023 WPIAL Class 5A football breakdown: Reaching postseason no easy task
In WPIAL Class 5A, there’s no room for error.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the tight ends
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top tight ends for the 2023 season.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the offensive line
August 19, 2023
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top offensive linemen for the 2023 season.
Clairton seeking donations to renovate 93-year-old football stadium
August 18, 2023
Before next football season, Clairton’s nearly century-old stadium could undergo a major renovation with new seats, locker rooms and restrooms, artificial turf, modern lighting and a brickwork entrance.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the wide receivers
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top wide receivers for the 2023 season.
Enthusiasm grows at Imani Christian with numbers up, talent abundant
August 17, 2023
Imani Christian’s practices look different this summer than last, largely because there are twice as many players.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top running backs for the 2023 season.
2023 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks
August 15, 2023
Starting today, TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top quarterbacks for the 2023 season.
With experienced roster returning, Mars’ jump is ‘mind blowing’
August 12, 2023
Mars coach Eric Kasperowicz doesn’t go out of his way to compare his current team with his previous one, but he does see some promising similarities.New North Allegheny hall of famer Mike McMahon tutoring next generation of QBs
Some quarterbacks get starting jobs early in high school, draw college offers as sophomores and hear fans predict how they’ll someday play on Sundays.
Skill returns, but Aliquippa has holes to fill in quest for WPIAL 3-peat
August 11, 2023
In a tradition-rich football town with 19 WPIAL titles, change doesn’t come easily for everyone.
New Woodland Hills coach expects big, athletic line to pave way to success
August 10, 2023
Woodland Hills football is well known for the wide receivers, running backs and defense backs who migrated from Friday nights to Saturdays and eventually Sunday afternoons.
With new big-play offense, Gateway looks to return to playoff win column
August 9, 2023
Most visitors return from Florida with theme park souvenirs, a suntan and maybe some oranges, but Gateway coach Don Holl brought home a new offense.
As football season begins with heat week, Central Catholic starts to lay foundation
August 7, 2023
Central Catholic’s new football coach, Ryan Lehmeier, and his predecessor, Terry Totten, were both on the practice field Monday when the Vikings started heat acclimation.
Blackhawk preparing to change football coaches days before camp starts
Add one more name to the list of schools with new head football coaches.
2023 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Westinghouse’s Kyshawn Robinson
August 5, 2023
Westinghouse reached the state finals last fall with a senior-heavy lineup, so the Bulldogs are destined for a down year, right?
2023 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: North Catholic’s Brady O’Hara
July 30, 2023
Being tall isn’t a new experience for North Catholic’s Brady O’Hara.
‘No one has a better answer:’ PIAA relying on principals to identify transgender athletes
July 29, 2023
High school principals in Pennsylvania are asked to identify transgender athletes as male or female under PIAA rules, while other states empower a health care provider or use a student’s birth certificate to make that decision.
2023 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: West Mifflin’s Rico Steele
July 25, 2023
Rico Steele earned all-conference honors a year ago as a big-bodied brawler, but the West Mifflin lineman spent the offseason reinventing himself.
Recruiting by H.S. coaches under microscope after Shady Side basketball coach’s suspension
July 22, 2023
A one-year suspension is the punishment for any PIAA coach caught recruiting, but is that rule taken seriously in every case and in all corners of the state?
WPIAL suspends Shady Side Academy girls basketball coach Jonna Burke for recruiting violation
July 20, 2023
When the parents of a basketball player from another school followed her on Twitter, Shady Side Academy coach Jonna Burke checked their profiles and sent them a direct message.
2023 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Mt. Lebanon’s Connor Young
July 18, 2023
Watching game film of last season was Mike Collodi’s way to learn quickly about the Blue Devils roster he inherited after Mt. Lebanon hired him as football coach.
1-and-1 free throws eliminated in basketball rule changes approved by PIAA
July 14, 2023
The one-and-one free throw has effectively fouled out of Pennsylvania high school basketball.
PIAA expands competitive-balance rule to include baseball, softball, soccer and other sports
The PIAA competitive-balance rule that now targets only football and basketball is expanding to include more team sports and some individual ones.
2023 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Bishop Canevin’s Jason Cross
July 12, 2023
Editor’s note: This is the first in a series of 25 profiles of the members of the Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team.
Oakland A’s select Brownsville outfielder Derrick Tarpley in MLB Draft
July 11, 2023
Brownsville maybe isn’t a familiar stop for some MLB scouts, but the Oakland A’s visited multiple times this spring to see senior outfielder Derrick Tarpley.
USA Today names 3 WPIAL greats among best high school quarterbacks in history
July 10, 2023
Who was the best high school quarterback in history?
North Allegheny’s Kellie McConnell follows familiar path, commits to Duquesne basketball
July 7, 2023
Kellie McConnell’s family is already linked with Duquesne basketball’s past and present, so she decided to help shape the program’s future as well.
2023 Pennsylvania All-State Softball Team
July 6, 2023
Avonworth’s Alivia Lantzy, Seneca Valley’s Lexie Hames and Serra Catholic’s Caroline Malandra earned individual honors Thursday when the all-state softball team was announced.
Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher named 2022-23 TribLive HSSN Boys Athlete of the Year
July 2, 2023
Rodney Gallagher was so good at both basketball and football that the Laurel Highlands star considered for a while trying to play both in college.
Freedom’s Shaye Bailey named 2022-23 TribLive HSSN Girls Athlete of the Year
In an era where specialization is trendy in high school sports, Freedom’s Shaye Bailey doesn’t like that idea.
2023 Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year: Shaler’s Miguel Hugas
July 1, 2023
The Strath Haven students behind the third base dugout decided to taunt Miguel Hugas with chants of “overrated.”
Looking back: The WPIAL’s top storylines from 2022-23
Nov. 11, 2022
Bishop Canevin safety Jason Cross, whose recruiting stock soared, commits to West Virginia
June 30, 2023
As one of the WPIAL’s hottest football recruits, Jason Cross spent months touring far-flung college campuses, with visits to Virginia Tech, Michigan State, Kentucky, Syracuse and Cincinnati on his calendar.
2023 TribLive HSSN Softball All-Stars
June 29, 2023
Neshannock’s Addyson Frye and Union’s Mia Preuhs were only sophomores this spring, yet the standout pitchers are already two-time WPIAL champions each.
2023 TribLive HSSN Baseball All-Stars
June 28, 2023
This was a historic spring for WPIAL baseball teams, starting with Riverside’s undefeated run to a state championship, something no other WPIAL team had ever accomplished.
KDKA announces 10-game high school football schedule for Pittsburgh’s CW
June 26, 2023
KDKA will televise regular season high school football games this fall on sister station Pittsburgh’s CW starting with an Aug. 25 contest between Blackhawk and Beaver Falls.
North Allegheny added more plaques, medals to trophy case during 2022-23 school year
June 24, 2023
This was another banner year for North Allegheny athletics with teams winning WPIAL titles, PIAA championships, and even a Gatorade Player of the Year award for the school’s top girls volleyball player.
Central Catholic wide receiver Peter Gonzalez commits to Penn State
June 23, 2023
Central Catholic wide receiver Peter Gonzalez, one of the state’s top college recruits, committed Friday to Penn State.
Mt. Lebanon’s 7th-inning rally falls short in state finals loss to Father Judge
June 17, 2023
UNIVERSITY PARK – The Mt. Lebanon baseball players left the state championship game with silver medals, but the Blue Devils’ coach insisted he’d always remembered this team as golden.
Keystone Oaks defensive back Clinton Robinson commits to Syracuse
Keystone Oaks defensive back Clinton Robinson, who’ll be a senior in the fall, has committed to Syracuse.
Shaler erases 5-run deficit, celebrates PIAA title with walk-off win
June 15, 2023
UNIVERSITY PARK — Starting pitcher Derek Leas lasted only nine batters before his coach pulled him from the mound, but this state championship will be remembered for its improbable comebacks.
Riverside makes history as undefeated PIAA baseball champion
UNIVERSITY PARK — In his 55 years as baseball coach at Riverside, Dan Oliastro has seen quite a bit, but he’d never seen this.
WPIAL awards streaming rights to NFHS Network; future of free viewing of championships in doubt
June 14, 2023
High school sports fans likely will have to pay to watch WPIAL football and basketball championships after the league awarded video streaming rights for its playoffs to the NFHS Network.
Mt. Lebanon celebrates Senior Week with win over Cedar Cliff, trip to state finals
June 13, 2023
Many of Tanner Donati’s classmates traveled to Ocean City, Md., to celebrate their recent high school graduation with a week of sand and sun.
PIAA postpones Mt. Lebanon, Shaler baseball state semifinals to Tuesday
June 11, 2023
WPIAL champions Mt. Lebanon and Shaler were among the baseball teams who had their PIAA semifinals postponed due to rainy weather Monday.
North Allegheny’s Ray Brinzer takes place among other WPIAL all-time greats
June 10, 2023
Thinking back to his 109-match winning streak in high school, former North Allegheny wrestler Ray Brinzer admits he was a little surprised.
Shaler ace Miguel Hugas comes through in PIAA quarterfinal win over Penn-Trafford
June 8, 2023
The original plan for Shaler ace Miguel Hugas wasn’t to pitch him in the state quarterfinals, but Penn-Trafford ran into the talented Alabama recruit here anyway.
Wisconsin lands another WPIAL recruit as Pine-Richland lineman Ryan Cory commits
June 6, 2023
Six hundred miles separate the University of Wisconsin from Western Pennsylvania, but the Badgers’ football coaches keep attracting WPIAL recruits to Madison.
Mt. Lebanon capitalizes on 4-error inning by Manheim Township in PIAA playoff win
June 5, 2023
Eight miles was how far Mt. Lebanon traveled to reach Boyce Mayview Park, the site of Monday’s state playoff game.
Former Steeler Jonathan Hayes highlights WPIAL Hall of Fame induction with focus on family
June 2, 2023
NFL veteran Jonathan Hayes is best known for playing tight end and coaching football, but as a student at South Fayette, his parents made sure he was involved in other activities.
PIAA reveals sites, times for 1st round of state softball playoffs
Avonworth and Neshannock repeated as WPIAL softball champions this week, but now they’ll try to win back-to-back state titles as well.
PIAA announces sites, times for 1st round of state baseball playoffs
The six WPIAL baseball champions will start the state tournament close to home, but nobody will be closer than Riverside.
Mt. Lebanon’s David Shields no-hits North Allegheny in WPIAL Class 6A baseball championship game
May 31, 2023
Mt. Lebanon has a knack for no-hitters in WPIAL championship games.
Venezuelan star leads Shaler to dominant win over Bethel Park in WPIAL Class 5A finals
May 30, 2023
Miguel Hugas sparked a championship celebration in Shaler Township, but the star senior was sure he’d hear from some happy baseball fans in Venezuela too.
McKeesport’s Jahmil Perryman scores twice as Pennsylvania wins Big 33 Football Classic
May 29, 2023
McKeesport’s Jahmil Perryman scored twice, and Team Pennsylvania rallied with a late touchdown to win the Big 33 Football Classic, 31-27, over the Maryland all-stars Sunday in Harrisburg.
Riverview’s Amberson Bauer runs away with 800 title at PIAA championships
May 27, 2023
Amberson Bauer prepares for track meets with some visualization, running each stage of a race through his head with mental reps.
Brownsville’s Jolena Quarzo extends family’s winning streak to 5 at PIAA championships
The PIAA had a special guest award Brownsville senior Jolena Quarzo her final state championship gold medal — her older sister Gionna.
Mt. Lebanon’s Logan St. John Kletter breaks PIAA championship record in 3,200 meters
SHIPPENSBURG — At this time last year, Logan St. John Kletter was suffering from a nerve condition in her foot and wondering when she’d run competitively again.
PIAA notebook: Injury knocks highly seeded WPIAL champion out of 100 meters
SHIPPENSBURG — An injury cut short New Castle sprinter Kaevon Gardner’s debut at the state track championships Friday, forcing one of the top athletes in the 100-meter dash to make an early exit.
Freeport senior shakes off rough start, claims PIAA discus medal
May 26, 2023
SHIPPENSBURG — After her first couple of discus throws produced a foul and a 104-footer, Reese Skiba’s state championship was off to a lackluster start.
Brownsville’s Jolena Quarzo defends 1,600-meter title at PIAA track championships
SHIPPENSBURG — Brownsville’s Jolena Quarzo decided to skip more races than usual in her senior year, but this wasn’t a case of senioritis.
Coaches wish PIAA team track title could be decided in playoff format like WPIAL
May 25, 2023
It takes a team effort to win a WPIAL team track title, but that’s not necessarily true for winning a state title.
‘Tremendous issue’ with foot hasn’t slowed Upper St. Clair sprinter Dani Prunzik entering states
Nobody who saw Dani Prunzik sprint across the finish line at the WPIAL track championships could’ve guessed the Upper St. Clair senior has battled a painful foot injury for almost a year.
Longtime Hampton athletic director Bill Cardone to retire
May 24, 2023
Longtime Hampton athletic director Bill Cardone won’t be making as many trips to Mars or Moon, but soon he’ll have plenty of free time to travel the world.
Plum reliever shuts door on South Fayette in Class 5A quarterfinals
May 22, 2023
Plum relief pitcher Colin Watson isn’t so worried about how things start but rather how they finish.
Peters Township’s Brendan McCullough makes key interception in East-West all-star win
Peters Township defensive back Brendan McCullough made a late-game interception Sunday that secured a 24-16 victory for his West team in the PSFCA East-West Big School Game in Harrisburg.
From snowboarding to javelin, North Allegheny’s Alaina Fantaski is a determined champion
May 20, 2023
North Allegheny senior Alaina Fantaski was a nationally ranked snowboarder in junior high, who also tried fencing and more traditional activities like basketball.
Canon-McMillan’s Rose Kuchera wins 4 gold medals while crisscrossing WPIAL track championships
May 17, 2023
Canon-McMillan’s Rose Kuchera was relaxing in the team’s tent when a teammate asked if she was running the 100-meter hurdles.
5 things to watch at WPIAL track and field championships
The WPIAL might be known best for its football hall of famers, but don’t overlook the league’s track and field pedigree.
Known for high-flying dunks, Penn Hills’ Daemar Kelly now leaping over high jump bars
May 16, 2023
Anyone who saw Daemar Kelly finish an alley-oop this winter knows the Penn Hills senior can almost fly. In a gym, on a wood floor, with a basketball in his hands, few around the WPIAL jump higher than him.
NFHS eliminates 1-and-1 foul shots from high school basketball rulebook
May 15, 2023
The pressure of shooting a one-and-one is likely to vanish from high school basketball.
Former OLSH basketball star Jake DiMichele commits to Duquesne
May 12, 2023
Former Our Lady of the Sacred Heart basketball star Jake DiMichele, who graduated a year ago as one of WPIAL’s all-time leading scorers, committed Friday to Duquesne.
Central Catholic linebacker Cole Sullivan commits to Michigan
Central Catholic linebacker Cole Sullivan committed Friday to Michigan, choosing the Wolverines over finalists Duke, Notre Dame, Stanford and Wisconsin.
Breaking down the 2023 WPIAL baseball playoffs
Class 6A
WPIAL releases brackets for 2023 baseball playoffs
Who’s No. 1?
WPIAL announces pairings for 2023 softball playoffs
May 11, 2023
Last year’s winners are back for more.
WPIAL adds Pittsburgh Pirates as sponsor for baseball, softball championships
The WPIAL baseball and softball finals will include racing pierogies, T-shirt tosses and a famous green parrot now that the Pittsburgh Pirates have become a presenting sponsor of the high school championship games.
WPIAL awards Mars, Peters Township top seeds in boys lacrosse playoffs
Defending WPIAL and state champion Mars will begin its title defense as a No. 1 seed in the WPIAL boys lacrosse playoffs.
Bob Palko among 5 football coaches chosen for PSFCA Hall of Fame
Bob Palko, who won a record nine WPIAL football titles at West Allegheny and Mt. Lebanon, will be inducted this month into the Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
Pine-Richland, Mars draw top seeds in WPIAL girls lacrosse playoffs
Pine-Richland and Mars received the top seeds when the WPIAL announced brackets for the girls lacrosse playoffs Thursday.
North Allegheny girls, boys sweep WPIAL Class 3A track and field team titles
May 9, 2023
North Allegheny track coach John Neff said he had trouble deciding which three girls should run the 3,200 meters Tuesday, mainly because the Tigers had too many good options.
WPIAL softball rankings: Week ending May 7, 2023
Class 6A
Moon’s Jacob Puhalla defends McKinney Mile title in Baldwin Invite’s marquee race
Once Jacob Puhalla wins a track title, the Moon runner likes to win it again.
Many WPIAL athletes at Baldwin Invitational embrace challenge of back-to-back meets
Liz Tapper is one of the state’s top throwers, but the Hempfield senior faced a challenge Friday that was new to her and many others at the Baldwin Invitational.
2023 all-state boys basketball team includes 29 WPIAL players
May 3, 2023
Aquinas Academy’s Vinnie Cugini and Steel Valley’s Makhai Valentine earned all-state player of the year honors Wednesday as two of the most prolific scorers in WPIAL boys basketball.
WPIAL team track, boys tennis events postponed Tuesday because of rain
May 2, 2023
Tuesday’s cold, wet weather led the WPIAL to postpone tennis and team track and field events until later in the week.
Central Catholic linebacker Cole Sullivan narrows college options to ‘Top 5’
April 30, 2023
Central Catholic already has one junior linebacker committed to a Power 5 school but soon will have another.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 30, 2023
Class 6A
North Allegheny hosting Western Pa. Football Recruiting Day to connect with college coaches
There are dozens of small-college football coaches who recruit Western Pennsylvania, but sometimes a talented WPIAL player can go overlooked in the process.
North Hills’ Royce Parham commits to Marquette
April 26, 2023
North Hills junior Royce Parham, one of the WPIAL’s top college basketball recruits, committed Wednesday to Marquette.
Former North Allegheny basketball coach Dan DeRose files lawsuit against Fox Chapel School District after ’21 altercation
Dan DeRose wants to coach high school basketball again, but the former WPIAL champion said school districts have shied away because of criminal charges he faced two years ago involving Fox Chapel school police.
South Fayette’s Maddie Webber, Union coach Rob Nogay lead all-state girls basketball team
April 24, 2023
South Fayette senior Maddie Webber, a Villanova recruit who led the Lions to a WPIAL title and a PIAA runner-up finish this winter, was named the state’s Class 5A girls basketball player of the year by all-state voters.
WPIAL Baseball rankings: Week ending April 23, 2023
Class 6A
North Allegheny sprinter Khiryn Boyd showing off his speed among WPIAL’s best
After not running track for a year, North Allegheny sprinter Khiryn Boyd was curious about the times being run this spring and how his compared with his competitors.
PIAA adds 500 officials, but shortage remains ‘major issue’ for many sports
April 19, 2023
Statewide efforts to recruit and retain high school game officials are seeing some positive results, said a PIAA administrator who oversees the men and women in stripes.
WPIAL announces 20 winners of James Collins Scholar-Athlete Award
The WPIAL saw an increased number of applicants for the James Collins Scholar-Athlete Award this year, and Wednesday announced 20 winners from the 162 nominees.
Trib HSSN WPIAL softball rankings: Week ending April 16, 2023
Class 6A
500-game winner Dana Petruska retires as Mars basketball coach, cites ‘some parent situations’
Mars girls basketball coach Dana Petruska is retiring after 37 years and more than 500 wins, in part because there were too many wannabe coaches in the stands.
Deep North Allegheny girls track and field team takes aim at defending WPIAL title
Recent history says the North Allegheny girls have a good chance to repeat as WPIAL team track champions later this spring. Consider, in the past 30 years, no Class 3A girls champion has won the title only once.
South Park promotes longtime assistant to football coach
April 14, 2023
South Park’s new football coach is already very familiar with the program.
Moon finds replacement for retiring athletic director Ron Ledbetter
Moon has hired a new athletic director to replace Ron Ledbetter, who is retiring this summer after a 33-year career as an educator. The school on Thursday announced the hire of current Beaver athletic director Alan Alcalde.
Butler basketball standout Braylon Littlejohn commits to Miami (Ohio) — for football
April 12, 2023
When Butler’s Braylon Littlejohn committed to Miami (Ohio) on Tuesday, folks weren’t asking him about his choice of schools, but rather his choice of sports.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 9, 2023
Class 6A
Behind family atmosphere, North Allegheny softball team aims to return to WPIAL final
The North Allegheny softball players were individually asked by their coaches to pick one word to describe the program. It wasn’t a serious task, just a light-hearted word-association game.
Belle Vernon star Quinton Martin picks Penn State
April 7, 2023
Penn State landed its first WPIAL running back recruit since Miles Sanders when Belle Vernon’s Quinton Martin committed to the Nittany Lions.
2023 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball All-Stars
April 6, 2023
Scoring 1,000 points in a high school career remains an impressive feat in WPIAL basketball, but remarkably, the league saw its first 3,000-point scorer this winter.
Lincoln Park’s Meleek Thomas named 2023 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball Player of the Year
2023 Boys Basketball Player of the Year
2023 TribLive HSSN Girls Basketball All-Stars
April 5, 2023
South Fayette won a second consecutive WPIAL girls basketball title this winter, North Allegheny won its third in four years and North Catholic won its sixth since 2017. Those powerhouse teams and more are represented here in the TribLive HSSN girls basketball all-stars for 2023.
Blackhawk basketball coach Steve Lodovico took job ‘for a year,’ resigns 18 seasons later after building WPIAL powerhouse
April 3, 2023
Eighteen years ago, Steve Lodovico applied to be Blackhawk’s boys basketball coach, hoping to replace his legendary mentor John Miller, who was retiring.
WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 2, 2023
Class 6A
‘Nobody has a perfect system:’ PIAA, critics remain at odds over public-private school debate
The Philadelphia Catholic League opponent Deer Lakes faced in the state basketball finals played tremendous defense, but that shouldn’t surprise anyone, the Lancers’ coach said.
North Allegheny boys volleyball embarks on season of change
The senior-heavy lineup that won a state championship has graduated. The head coach who led the program for two decades has retired. Yes, this is a season of change for the North Allegheny boys volleyball team.
Despite strong start, Deer Lakes comes up short to West Catholic in PIAA Class 3A final
March 25, 2023
HERSHEY — “Let’s go Lancers.”
Aliquippa again finishes as PIAA runner-up after loss to Lancaster Mennonite
March 24, 2023
HERSHEY — Trips to the so-called “Sweetest Place on Earth” have become bittersweet for Aliquippa.
Lincoln Park beats perennial PIAA power Neumann-Goretti in state finals classic
March 23, 2023
HERSHEY — With 11 seconds on the clock, Lincoln Park’s Meleek Thomas knew it was time to “boogie.”
With tiny enrollment but tons of talent, Imani Christian claims PIAA Class A basketball crown
HERSHEY — One of the smallest high schools in the state won the biggest basketball trophy in Pennsylvania, yet few will call this an underdog story.
Deer Lakes makes more history with berth in 1st PIAA final
March 21, 2023
Neither team had ever reached the state finals, so the Deer Lakes and Penn Cambria boys basketball teams knew history would be made one way or the other Tuesday night.
OLSH basketball coach Don Eckerle ‘good to go’ after collapsing at PIAA semifinal game
On a hectic game day, with all of the preparation that needs to be done, coaches can neglect themselves at times, said longtime basketball coach Don Eckerle.
Imani Christian dominates rematch with Union, earns 1st trip to PIAA basketball finals
March 20, 2023
The words of an opposing coach and heated talk about public vs. private wasn’t what ultimately motivated Imani Christian for Monday night’s playoff win.
Strong 3rd quarter leads Aliquippa past Bishop Canevin in ‘testy’ PIAA quarterfinal
March 18, 2023
The atmosphere around the Aliquippa vs. Bishop Canevin state quarterfinal was tense, to say the least.
After early playoff exit, North Allegheny aims to ‘get that fire back’
The gaggle of professional baseball scouts is gone, but that doesn’t mean there’s a quiet atmosphere nowadays at North Allegheny practices.
‘Other three’ key as Lincoln Park holds off Laurel Highlands in PIAA quarterfinals
March 17, 2023
Lincoln Park’s Dontay Green left the locker room without a shoe on his right foot, the troublesome one that needed screws and plates to fix a lisfranc fracture several months ago.
PIAA announces sites, times for Saturday state basketball quarterfinals
March 16, 2023
Peters Township will host an all-WPIAL doubleheader Saturday in the quarterfinals of the state basketball tournament.
Central Catholic’s PIAA bracket busted by son of Penn State basketball coach
March 15, 2023
EBENSBURG — State College’s Braeden Shrewsberry didn’t accompany his father to the NCAA tournament, but the son of Penn State’s basketball coach created his own moments of March Madness.
Despite defensive shadow, Rodney Gallagher leads Laurel Highlands into PIAA quarterfinals
March 14, 2023
Laurel Highlands coach Rick Hauger’s practices can include some junk defenses, maybe a diamond-and-one or triangle-and-two, but the Mustangs don’t use them in games.
Butler’s Drew Griffith leads 2023 PTFCA all-state honors as indoor track athlete of the year
Butler junior Drew Griffith, one of the state’s top distance runners, was named the boys indoor track athlete of the year by the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.
Butler rejoining WPIAL football in 2024, ends dispute with PIAA
March 13, 2023
The Butler football team will rejoin the WPIAL in 2024, ending a legal dispute between the school district and PIAA over the team’s desire to stay in District 10.
Deer Lakes boys open state playoffs with dominant win on home floor
March 11, 2023
The stairs that lead from the Deer Lakes locker room to the gym floor are quite steep, but the Lancers were confident they wouldn’t stumble on this day.
‘Bad night’ eliminates North Hills in 1st round of PIAA playoffs
March 10, 2023
North Hills spent the past 10 days putting up shots in its own gym, making Friday’s shooting woes hard to explain.
Union H.S. basketball coach reignites public vs. private debate with postgame comments
March 7, 2023
Union basketball coach Mark Stanley said he wasn’t trying to spark a firestorm with his critical comments at the WPIAL finals but instead shared out loud thoughts other public school coaches keep to themselves.
Behind big night from Dante DePante, Central Catholic stops New Castle to win 2nd WPIAL title
March 4, 2023
Central Catholic hadn’t won a WPIAL title in 15 years, but Dante DePante made himself at home in Petersen Events Center, an arena that’s about a mile from the Vikings’ gym.
In the end, Lincoln Park too much for North Catholic in Class 4A WPIAL title game
March 3, 2023
Lincoln Park’s Brandin Cummings and Meleek Thomas hear praise from many places, but on this championship night, the best accolades came from the coach of the other team.
Deer Lakes dethrones OLSH to win 1st WPIAL basketball championship
The Deer Lakes boys made basketball history twice this winter, and each time they snapped an Our Lady of the Sacred Heart streak.
Penn Hills second to none in WPIAL finals victory over Peters Township
March 2, 2023
Penn Hills is underrated no more.
Imani Christian surges past Union to win 1st WPIAL title, reigniting public-private debate
Playing against Imani Christian is always a tall task, but as 6-foot-11 sophomore Alier Maluk swung from a Petersen Events Center rim Thursday night, the gigantic challenge became clear.
2023 WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship breakdown: Lincoln Park vs. North Catholic
WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball final
2023 WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball championship breakdown: Deer Lakes vs. OLSH
WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball final
2023 WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship breakdown: Peters Township vs. Penn Hills
WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball final
2023 WPIAL Class A boys basketball championship breakdown: Imani Christian vs. Union
March 1, 2023
WPIAL Class A boys basketball final
Hot-shooting New Castle tops Mt. Lebanon, returns to WPIAL finals for 6th time in 7 years
February 28, 2023
The first quarter was too low-scoring for Isaiah Boice’s comfort, so the New Castle senior got to work.
Deer Lakes hits 3-pointer in closing seconds, upsets No. 1 seed Steel Valley
February 27, 2023
The Deer Lakes boys are headed to the WPIAL finals for the first time in school history, and they’ll do so with a first-year coach leading the celebration. But before they could scream and shout Monday night, everyone in green and gold held their breath.
Longtime Beaver football coach, WPIAL Hall of Famer Pat Tarquinio dies
Longtime Beaver football coach Pat Tarquinio, who was one of the winningest coaches in WPIAL history, has died. Beaver athletic director Alan Alcalde announced his death Monday.
Penn Hills baffles North Hills with 3-pointers, alley-oops in WPIAL semifinal win
February 25, 2023
Penn Hills teammates Daemar Kelly and Julian Dugger have perfected their high-flying alley-oop this winter, mastering a play that shows their rare athleticism.
Behind veteran standouts, talented freshmen, North Allegheny girls eye another WPIAL swimming title
North Allegheny’s Corky Semler has coached high school swimming for almost 40 years, so when he says this year’s freshman class is among his best, that’s worth noting.
Football coach Mike Collodi leaves Elizabeth Forward for Mt. Lebanon
February 24, 2023
A football player’s body language and how he carries himself are important to Mike Collodi, who was thrilled with the reception he received Thursday as Mt. Lebanon’s new coach.
Mt. Lebanon holds off Butler, reaches WPIAL semifinals for 5th time in 6 years
Three times in the fourth quarter, Mt. Lebanon’s Riley Farabaugh was sent to the foul line for a crucial one-and-one.
No. 1 Lincoln Park survives WPIAL quarterfinal test from South Allegheny
February 23, 2023
Lincoln Park was held 25 points below its season average and didn’t make a 3-pointer all game, yet the WPIAL favorite in Class 4A is still alive.
PIAA cracks down on ‘redshirt’ years taken by junior high athletes
February 22, 2023
The PIAA is cracking down on junior high athletes who take unofficial redshirt years.
WPIAL reveals new consolation brackets for basketball, includes 3rd-place games
February 21, 2023
The last time WPIAL basketball had a consolation bracket, the league used a combination of play-in games and follow-the-winner tiebreakers to qualify teams for the 2016 state tournament.
Amid coaching controversy, Steel Valley opens playoffs with win over McGuffey
Whenever Steel Valley’s Makhai Valentine glanced into the stands Monday night, he wasn’t looking for friends or family. That’s where his suspended head coach was sitting, five rows behind the team’s bench.
South Park football coach Marty Rieck resigns after 8 seasons
February 20, 2023
South Park football coach Marty Rieck, who won state titles with the Eagles as both a player and assistant coach, has resigned after eight seasons leading the program.
Nationally ranked wrestlers among winners at Western Pa. Girls Championship
Three nationally ranked wrestlers were among the 13 champions crowned Sunday at the Western Pa. Girls Championship, an event that more than doubled in size since last winter.
22 WPIAL football players picked for Big School East-West all-star game
February 18, 2023
Pine-Richland teammates Ryan Palmieri, Jake Beam, John Rottinghaus and Matt Nicely, who won a state title together in December, were among 22 WPIAL football players chosen for the Big School East-West all-star game.
North Allegheny girls regroup during long layoff before WPIAL Class 6A playoffs commence
WPIAL schedule-makers gave the North Allegheny girls almost two weeks off before the basketball playoffs, but the Tigers didn’t take a vacation.
Small School East-West all-star game roster includes 16 from WPIAL, City League
Pitt recruit Braylan Lovelace of Leechburg and future Miami (Ohio) lineman Greg Smith of Steel Valley were among 16 WPIAL and City League players selected for the Small School East-West all-star game this year.
Experienced backcourt leads No. 4 Gateway past Woodland Hills in WPIAL playoff opener
A backcourt led by experienced guards is a time-tested formula that works in March Madness, but it also wins games here in the WPIAL playoffs.
13 WPIAL, City League players chosen for 2023 Big 33 Football Classic
February 17, 2023
Thirteen players from the WPIAL and City League were selected to compete in this year’s Big 33 Football Classic.
WPIAL brings back play-in games to determine state basketball playoff qualifiers
February 14, 2023
No more sitting and waiting.
Choosing Hampton’s seed becomes tricky decision with leading scorer ineligible
The chairman of the WPIAL basketball committee largely avoided one of Monday’s most-interesting debates, since it was a topic close to his heart.
Breaking down the 2023 WPIAL boys basketball playoff brackets
February 13, 2023
A closer look at the WPIAL boys basketball playoffs, which begin Thursday night:
WPIAL reveals basketball playoff brackets asking: ‘What have you done lately?’
If the season ended three days ago, the Penn Hills boys probably would’ve earned a No. 1 seed in the WPIAL basketball playoffs.
2023 WPIAL bracketology: HSSN forecasts the boys basketball playoff pairings
February 12, 2023
The Path to the Pete will be revealed Monday when the WPIAL basketball playoff pairings are announced at 3 p.m. on TribLive HSSN.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 12, 2023
Class 6A
North Allegheny set to host 2nd annual Western Pa. girls wrestling championship
About 35 athletes visited North Allegheny last winter for the first Western Pa. girls wrestling championship, a number that should more than double this time around.
Rodney Gallagher scores 29, Laurel Highlands tops rival Uniontown in 2OTs
February 10, 2023
The scouting report on Rodney Gallagher says that if he gets enough late-game chances, he’ll usually make opponents pay.
Central Catholic’s Debaba Tshiebwe follows brotherly advice, posts double-double to defeat Butler
February 8, 2023
Advice from an older brother can be valuable, especially when your brother is the top college basketball player in the country.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending February 5, 2023
February 4, 2023
Class 6A
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending February 5, 2023
Class 6A
Isaiah Boice’s quick recovery helps No. 1 New Castle defeat No. 2 Central Catholic
Isaiah Boice planned to celebrate New Castle’s section title by drinking lots of chocolate milk, the bone-healing beverage he credits for his quick recovery.
State rep proposes legislation that would allow PIAA to crown separate public, private champs
February 3, 2023
The PIAA has maintained that splitting public and private schools into separate playoffs is prohibited under a state statute from 1972, but new legislation could rewrite that law.
Baldwin hires McKeesport assistant Dana Brown Jr. as football coach
February 1, 2023
Dana Brown Jr. turns 32 on Sunday, but he got an early birthday present Wednesday night.
Ohio-bound D.J. Walker, 5 other Aliquippa seniors make college commitments official
A group of Aliquippa football seniors including standout safety/wide receiver Donovan Walker announced their college commitments Wednesday, with Walker choosing Ohio.
Aquinas Academy’s Vinnie Cugini breaks WPIAL basketball all-time scoring record
January 31, 2023
There’s a new all-time leading scorer in WPIAL basketball history, but the newly crowned record holder had a somewhat subdued celebration.
Woodland Hills’ Miles Sanders extends Super Bowl streak for Big 33 Football Classic
January 29, 2023
The Big 33 Football Classic’s Super Bowl streak lives on, thanks to a former WPIAL star.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 29, 2023
Class 6A
North Allegheny wrestling crowns 2 county champs
North Allegheny’s wrestling team celebrated two individual champions at the Allegheny County Tournament at Fox Chapel, where senior Jayson Flener and junior Aidan Buggey each won their weight class Jan. 20-21.
No. 1 Lincoln Park uses ‘organized mayhem’ to defeat North Catholic, strengthen section lead
“Organized mayhem” is the way Lincoln Park’s boys basketball team describes its offense.
6 WPIAL coaches earn NFHS Section 2 honors for 2021-22 sports seasons
January 27, 2023
Six WPIAL coaches have earned regional honors from the National Federation of State High School Associations for their work in the 2021-22 school year.
City League QB among 5 finalists for Willie Thrower Award for 1st time
January 24, 2023
Westinghouse quarterback Keyshawn Morsillo, who led the Bulldogs on a historic run to the state football finals, was announced Tuesday as one of five finalists for the Willie Thrower Award.
Central Catholic hires former Seneca Valley, Pine-Richland assistant Ryan Lehmeier as football coach
Central Catholic’s new football coach wasn’t chosen from the school’s alumni list, but that doesn’t mean Ryan Lehmeier isn’t already familiar with the team’s tradition.
Bethel Park hires offensive coordinator Phil Peckich as football coach
Bethel Park promoted offensive coordinator Phil Peckich to head coach Tuesday night, giving the Black Hawks football program some continuity under a coach who’s among the youngest in the WPIAL.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 22, 2023
Class 6A
WPIAL Hall of Fame inductee Don Rebel reflects on 35 years calling games
A tree in the middle of a grassy field in Sheraden served as the first press box for a 7- or 8-year-old Don Rebel, who climbed the branches and offered play-by-play for his older brother’s Wiffle ball games.
North Allegheny wrestling great Ray Brinzer to join WPIAL Hall of Fame
Ray Brinzer writes software and manages databases as a computer programmer, which seems a world away from a wrestling mat for one of the WPIAL’s all-time greats, but the former North Allegheny star can see similarities.
With Pitt coach watching, Aliquippa football stars hit basketball stride to defeat Shenango
January 19, 2023
Pitt football coach Pat Narduzzi was sitting among the home fans in Aliquippa’s gym Wednesday night, there with dozens of others to watch a group of football players throw around a basketball.
Valley great Tom Pipkins highlights 2023 WPIAL Hall of Fame class
January 18, 2023
Tom Pipkins jokes that he might already be retired from working if high school athletes could’ve signed endorsement deals back in his day.
Peters Township creates 3-way section tie with narrow win over Bethel Park
Peters Township broke a tie on the scoreboard to create a tie in the standings.
Central Catholic’s Anthony Speca commits to Penn State
January 17, 2023
Central Catholic linebacker Anthony Speca, one of the state’s top college football recruits, committed Tuesday to Penn State.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 15, 2023
Class 6A
North Allegheny inline hockey team thrives outside spotlight
North Allegheny has a high school sports team that’s undefeated this winter, a motivated roster that’s trying to avenge a second-place finish from last year.
Mars aces midterm test with 37-point win over No. 1 Chartiers Valley
After a week of big tests in the classroom, the Mars boys basketball team passed another on the court Friday night.
North Allegheny’s Mia Tuman repeats as Gatorade Pa. Volleyball Player of the Year
January 13, 2023
North Allegheny senior Mia Tuman was recognized as the state’s top girls volleyball player for the second year in a row Friday when she was named Gatorade Pennsylvania Volleyball Player of the Year.
Pine-Richland football coach Jon LeDonne among 32 nominees for NFL’s Don Shula Award
Pine-Richland football coach Jon LeDonne, who led the Rams to a state title this season, was one of 32 coaches nationwide nominated for the Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year award.
Mt. Lebanon matches rival Upper St. Clair shot for shot in double-overtime win
January 10, 2023
Two dozen 3-pointers made the score higher than a typical Mt. Lebanon-Upper St. Clair grind, but the dramatic finish still fit this gritty rivalry’s history.
Penn Township’s Brian Sakowski ready to officiate national championship game
January 7, 2023
Sixteen years ago, as Brian Sakowski remembers, he worked his first varsity football game, a WPIAL rivalry between Trinity and Canon-McMillan.
Trib HSSN girls basketball rankings for week of Jan. 8, 2023
Class 6A
Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings for week of Jan. 8, 2023
Class 6A
Jonathan Anderson leads No. 1 New Castle past No. 2 Butler in renewed rivalry
New Castle’s Jonathan Anderson already knew all about his school’s old rivalry with Butler, even though the senior hadn’t faced the Tornado in his playing days.
WPIAL clears 6-9 basketball player Ama Sow after transfer to Montour
January 6, 2023
Montour sophomore Ama Sow kept asking boys basketball coach Bill Minear the same question.
Bob Palko, 9-time WPIAL champion, resigns as Mt. Lebanon football coach
Thirteen months after celebrating a state championship with the Blue Devils, Bob Palko has resigned as Mt. Lebanon’s football coach to focus attention on concerns away from the field.
Rosters announced for 2023 PIHL all-star games
Hempfield’s Nick Bruno and Bishop Canevin’s Ryan Saginaw, two of the PIHL’s top scorers, are among 210 players selected for the league’s all-star games.
PIHL mourns death of commissioner John Mucha
January 5, 2023
PIHL commissioner John Mucha, the top administrator for high school hockey in Western Pennsylvania, has died.
Hampton’s Peter Kramer scores 37 in key section win over Highlands
January 3, 2023
Hampton’s Peter Kramer shushed the Highlands crowd after one of his seven 3-pointers, a celebration he downplayed later, but nobody was able to quiet the Talbots’ newest star on this night.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings for week of Jan. 1, 2023
Class 6A
Lincoln Park tops Laurel Highlands in potential star-powered WPIAL championship preview
December 29, 2022
With a hyped crowd watching inside CCBC’s dome, Lincoln Park’s Meleek Thomas made a pair of free throws with 21 seconds left Thursday, the final points in a 70-66 victory over top-ranked Laurel Highlands.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 25, 2022
Class 6A
See the 2022 WPIAL and City League all-conference football teams
December 24, 2022
The four months of high school football season might zip by in a blur, but each fall the coaches take a moment to reflect, look back and vote for all-conference teams.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Fort Cherry freshman leads Black Hills awards
Fort Cherry’s Matt Sieg is only a freshman but conference coaches chose the dual-threat quarterback as the offensive MVP in the Black Hills this season.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Beaver Falls, Mohawk top Midwestern selections
Conference champion Beaver Falls earned six first-team spots on the all-Midwestern team led by senior Trey Singleton, who earned honors on both sides of the ball.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Greensburg Central Catholic tops Eastern awards
Conference champion Greensburg Central Catholic earned eight first-team spots on the all-conference team, including two by lineman Ryan Kimmel, who was recognized on both sides of the ball.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Mapletown leads Tri-County South after historic season
Mapletown celebrated its first undefeated regular season since 1968, a feat that was recognized in all-conference awards.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Union’s Braylon Thomas leads Big 7 award winners
Union quarterback Braylon Thomas and South Side linebacker Ryan Navarra earned the top individual awards in the Class A Big 7 all-conference voting.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Sto-Rox tops Century with 9 players on 1st team
December 23, 2022
Sto-Rox was a newcomer in the Class 2A Century Conference, but the Vikings made themselves right at home this season.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Steel Valley leads 1st team with 9 spots in Allegheny
Steel Valley’s Cruce Brookins was a two-way standout for the Ironmen, but he wasn’t the only player on the roster making an impact on both sides of the ball.
2022 All-City League Football Team: Westinghouse’s Keyshawn Morsillo, coach Donta Green take top honors
December 22, 2022
Westinghouse won the City League title for the 38th time in team history, but the Bulldogs didn’t stop there.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Avonworth sweeps MVP honors in Western Hills
Avonworth’s Luke Hilyard and Brandon Biagiarelli swept the conference MVP honors, and nine teammates also were named first-team all-conference after the Antelopes won the Class 3A Western Hills title.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Belle Vernon gets 12 spots on Interstate 1st team
Belle Vernon has had many reasons to celebrate.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Freeport, Shady Side Academy lead Allegheny 6 honors
Conference champion Freeport received 10 first-team all-conference spots in the Class 3A Allegheny 6, led by Ben Lane, Jacksen Reiser and Jacob Bollinger, who also earned individual awards.
Western Pa.’s Top 10 football prospects for the Class of 2024
December 21, 2022
College football coaches needing a linebacker, running back, wide receiver or offensive lineman will be visiting Western Pennsylvania in the coming months.
2022 TribLive HSSN Terrific 25 Football All-Stars
Western Pennsylvania had five high school football teams reach the state finals this season, including a postseason run by Westinghouse that was the City League’s first PIAA championship game appearance in decades.
Trib HSSN 2022 Head of the Class: Football player of the year in all 6 classes
December 19, 2022
As the saying goes, big-time players make big-time plays in big-time games. Many of the best players in Western Pennsylvania proved those words true this fall.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings for week of Dec. 18, 2022
Class 6A
PIAA sparks controversy with changes to diving championships
The PIAA fears high school diving is disappearing from many areas of the state, but changes meant to save the sport will force the WPIAL to revamp its championship format this winter.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: 10 Armstrong players, coach Frank Fabian earn Greater Allegheny honors
December 16, 2022
WPIAL passing leader Cadin Olsen earned first-team all-conference honors in the Class 4A Greater Allegheny, along with his top two receiving targets.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Aliquippa, coach Mike Warfield lead Parkway honors
Aliquippa players received a dozen first-team spots on the Class 4A Parkway all-conference team, including six claimed by a trio of linemen honored on both sides of the ball.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: 2-way standouts lead Big Seven postseason honors
McKeesport teammates Bobbie Boyd and Jahmil Perryman were two-way stars for the Tigers this season, but they weren’t the only players in the Class 4A Big Seven pulling double duty.
Former North Allegheny star Ayden Owens runner-up for top college track award
December 15, 2022
North Allegheny graduate and Arkansas decathlete Ayden Owens-Delerme was the runner-up for college track and field’s top honor Thursday night.
Woodland Hills seeks to replace football coach Tim Bostard
After 22 years of coaching Woodland Hills football, first as an assistant and later head coach, Tim Bostard says he often joked that he’d be there until they kicked him out.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: North Allegheny coach Art Walker joins 9 players on 6A team
December 14, 2022
The WPIAL classification for the biggest schools was the league’s smallest overall with only five teams.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Penn-Trafford has 7 spots on Big East 1st team
Penn-Trafford’s size up front was a strength this season and opposing coaches recognized that group favorably when voting for the all-conference team.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Penn Hills, Pine-Richland lead Class 5A Northeast honors
The playoff race in the Northeast was among the most competitive in the WPIAL, depth that showed in the all-conference team.
2022 WPIAL All-Conference Football: Upper St. Clair places 10 on Allegheny Six team
Upper St. Clair’s Aidan Besselman and Mark Banbury earned first-team honors on both sides of the ball, helping the Panthers claim 10 spots on the Allegheny Six all-conference team.
Former Gateway star Derrick Davis announces plans to transfer from LSU
December 12, 2022
Former Gateway standout Derrick Davis, the TribLive HSSN Football Player of the Year in 2019, has announced plans to transfer from LSU.
Belle Vernon sees no ‘racial intent’ by football players in controversial social media video
The Belle Vernon football players involved in a controversial social media video weren’t trying to racially taunt anyone, said the school’s top administrator, but they will face consequences for including a racial slur.
PIAA wants investigation into signs, video targeting Westinghouse football team
December 10, 2022
The PIAA has directed the Southern Columbia administration to investigate allegations of racist taunts involving signs and a social media video targeting Westinghouse’s football team.
After 7-year hiatus, Jamie Kyriazis returns to coach North Allegheny wrestling team
Timing is important in wrestling.
Pine-Richland stuns Imhotep Charter in PIAA Class 5A final on Ryan Palmieri’s big night
December 9, 2022
MECHANICSBURG — Pine-Richland quarterbacks sure have a knack for big performances in the biggest games, a history that includes Ben DiNucci, Phil Jurkovec and Cole Spencer.
Westinghouse’s hopes of state championship dashed by Southern Columbia in Class 2A final
MECHANICSBURG — Westinghouse fairy-tale ending was spoiled by a team that’s very familiar with being cast as the villain in the state football championships.
Westinghouse welcomes underdog role in PIAA finals against 12-time champion Southern Columbia
Westinghouse coach Donta Green gathers his football players after each practice and every game for a session he calls highs and shout-outs.
Bishop McDevitt punishes Aliquippa for mistakes in PIAA Class 4A title game
December 8, 2022
MECHANICSBURG — In the state football championships, against a quarterback with major-college talent and an opponent seeking redemption, there’s very little room for error.
Union playoff run ends with loss to Steelton-Highspire in PIAA Class A football final
MECHANICSBURG – Union could see the end zone all afternoon, but didn’t get there enough.
Defending state champion Aliquippa draws PIAA finals rematch with Bishop McDevitt
Aliquippa started a sophomore at quarterback and a freshman at running back in the state finals last season while opponent Bishop McDevitt had a freshman behind center that day.
Trib HSSN high school football state rankings for Dec. 7, 2022
The PIAA football playoffs are down to 12 teams as the season approaches the final weekend.
Plans to expand, strengthen PIAA competitive-balance rule rejected by board
December 7, 2022
MECHANICSBURG — Plans to revamp the competitive-balance formula were rejected Wednesday by the PIAA board, meaning only football and basketball teams are still impacted by the rule — and only those that add too many transfers.
After PIAA approves NIL policy, Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher quickly adds 1st deal
MECHANICSBURG — The vote was only a couple of hours old when Laurel Highlands senior Rodney Gallagher announced the first NIL deal for a PIAA athlete.
PIAA concerned with rising ejection rates among boys soccer players, coaches
December 5, 2022
The PIAA was optimistic that the rising number of player and coach ejections would subside statewide after adding a two-game suspension in 2020 for the most egregious unsportsmanlike acts.
Westinghouse ends City League’s 25-year wait, tops Steel Valley to reach state finals
December 2, 2022
No City League football team has reached the state finals in 25 years, but Westinghouse is headed there next week.
In storied Aliquippa football history, could these Quips show they’re best with another PIAA title?
December 1, 2022
There’s always room to debate which Aliquippa football team was the best in school history.
Central Catholic football coach Terry Totten resigns after 18 seasons, 6 WPIAL titles
When Central Catholic football coach Terry Totten officially met with his players one final time Thursday, he showed them the watch on his wrist and told them how it just keeps ticking.
Pine-Richland draws PIAA semifinal opponent that rarely passes
The football itself is usually an essential piece of practice equipment, but when Pine-Richland’s scout-team offense took the field this week, coach Jon LeDonne had the group run plays without one.
Trib HSSN High School Football State Rankings for Nov. 29, 2022
November 29, 2022
The favorites remain alive in the state playoffs.
Imani Christian transfers eligible for basketball season after PIAA overturns WPIAL decisions
November 28, 2022
Imani Christian transfers Robert Sledge and Kylan Holmes are now eligible to play basketball this winter after the PIAA overturned earlier decisions by the WPIAL.
PIAA announces semifinal sites, times for state football playoffs
November 27, 2022
The Pine-Richland football team has a two-hour bus ride this weekend and Aliquippa has a three-hour trip ahead. That often comes with reaching the state semifinals.
Westinghouse shuts down Farrell, sets up PIAA semifinal showdown with WPIAL champion
November 26, 2022
Westinghouse fans have a variety of chants and cheers, but “go defense go” seemed to have a little extra enthusiasm Saturday afternoon at Cupples Stadium.
Aliquippa rolls past Central Valley to capture 19th WPIAL football title
November 25, 2022
Aliquippa’s Tiqwai Hayes landed in the end zone after leaping headfirst over his linemen, but the running back was quickly airborne again when guard Neco Eberhardt celebrated by lifting the sophomore off his feet.
2022 WPIAL 4A football championship breakdown: Aliquippa vs. Central Valley
WPIAL Class 4A football championship
2022 WPIAL 3A football championship breakdown: Belle Vernon vs. Avonworth
November 24, 2022
WPIAL Class 3A football championship
2022 WPIAL 2A football championship breakdown: Steel Valley vs. Beaver Falls
WPIAL Class 2A football championship
2022 WPIAL A football championship breakdown: Bishop Canevin vs. Union
WPIAL Class A football championship
Thanksgiving Day practice now annual tradition for WPIAL 4A finalists Central Valley, Aliquippa
How many folks are coming to Thanksgiving dinner? Central Valley’s Bret FitzSimmons expected to eat turkey with around 70 friends.
Trib HSSN High School Football State Rankings for Nov. 22, 2022
November 22, 2022
There’s a new No. 1 team in Class 2A.
PIAA announces quarterfinal sites, times for state football playoffs
November 20, 2022
WPIAL Class 5A champion Pine-Richland will host a state quarterfinal in the PIAA football playoffs this week while 6A winner North Allegheny starts on the road.
North Allegheny shuts out rival Central Catholic in 2nd half to claim 5th WPIAL football title
November 19, 2022
These teams combined for one touchdown when they met eight weeks ago in a low-scoring, field-position battle between WPIAL rivals who leaned mostly on their defenses.
North Allegheny basketball teams adjust to early start to season
Starting basketball season a week earlier than usual probably doesn’t excite WPIAL coaches, but the idea of a less-compact regular season maybe does.
‘We are here:’ Aliquippa gets defensive in WPIAL semifinal victory over McKeesport
November 18, 2022
There was no tropical storm or heavy rain.
2022 WPIAL 6A football championship breakdown: North Allegheny vs. Central Catholic
WPIAL Class 6A football championship
2022 WPIAL 5A football championship breakdown: Pine-Richland vs. Upper St. Clair
WPIAL Class 5A football championship
Program-boosting coaches lead North Allegheny, Central Catholic into WPIAL Class 6A title game
Whether he deserves some credit or blame depends on your perspective, but Art Walker certainly helped set Central Catholic on a path to become a WPIAL powerhouse.
5 things to watch in Week 12 of high school football
November 17, 2022
Aliquippa is trying to reach the WPIAL football finals for the 15th year in a row, meaning some of the players on the Quips roster weren’t born the last time the team failed to get there.
Aliquippa, McKeesport collide again in WPIAL semifinals after 2OT battle last season
For a year, McKeesport has wondered what might’ve been.
5 things we learned in Week 11: Bill Cherpak joins ‘role model’ George Novak in WPIAL’s 300 club
November 13, 2022
Bill Cherpak could’ve succeeded in whatever career path he pursued, says his former high school football coach, recalling how the Steel Valley graduate already was a bright leader in those days.
WPIAL announces playoff sites for semifinal football games
November 12, 2022
The stadiums of Canon-McMillan and North Allegheny were chosen by the WPIAL to host two of the eight football semifinal matchups scheduled for Friday.
‘Down and out’ Central Catholic tops Mt. Lebanon to make 4th straight finals trip
November 11, 2022
Central Catholic wideout Peter Gonzalez missed the first three weeks of the season after knee surgery, but quarterback Payton Wehner kept throwing him passes anyway, while he worked his way back to the field.
Central Catholic is passing more than ever, yet rainstorm awaits in WPIAL semifinals
There was a new piece of equipment on the field at Central Catholic football practice this week: a five-gallon water jug.
5 things to watch in Week 11: Thomas Jefferson’s Bill Cherpak could be 4th WPIAL coach to 300 wins
Twenty-seven years ago, Thomas Jefferson started the 1995 football season with a 15-0 win over Belle Vernon behind a first-year head coach named Bill Cherpak.
WPIAL keeps football games on Friday despite rain; Westinghouse now Thursday
November 9, 2022
Don’t forget to bring an umbrella or two.
WPIAL issues split decisions on 3 Imani Christian basketball transfers
November 8, 2022
The WPIAL cleared Imani Christian transfer Damon Givner to play his sophomore basketball season with the Saints, but two others were ruled ineligible after separate hearings Tuesday in Green Tree.
WPIAL approves 2 Serra Catholic transfers after eligibility hearing
November 7, 2022
The WPIAL ruled Serra Catholic transfers Matt McNeal and David Jordan fully eligible after the sophomores attended an eligibility hearing Monday in Green Tree.
WPIAL announces sites for Friday’s round of football playoffs
November 5, 2022
The WPIAL chose Canon-McMillan and Gateway to host Class 5A semifinals Friday night.
5 things we learned in 1st round of WPIAL football playoffs
The drive home from Burgettstown to Lawrence County takes about an hour, but the Union football team had a slight detour Friday night.
New cast of characters earns more championship gold for North Allegheny cross country
North Allegheny swept the big-school WPIAL cross country team titles this fall for the fifth year in a row, adding two more banners to a long list of league championships.
Upper St. Clair stuns Gateway in WPIAL playoffs behind ‘resilient’ QB who’d lost starting job
Upper St. Clair quarterback Julian Dahlem lost his starting job last month and hadn’t attempted a pass in weeks, yet the sophomore threw a season-saving touchdown Friday night.
5 things to watch in Week 10 of high school football
November 4, 2022
In WPIAL Class 5A, is eight enough?
Upper St. Clair running back with Florida roots hopes to lead Panthers on WPIAL playoff run
An injured ankle had Jamaal Brown sidelined at this time last year, making him an unhappy spectator when Upper St. Clair lost in the first round of the playoffs.
Butler can participate in District 10 football championship after court denies PIAA request
November 3, 2022
The Butler football team will have a chance to win a District 10 championship thanks to a school district victory Thursday in court.
WPIAL rules Lincoln Park transfers eligible, requests hearings for Imani newcomers
November 2, 2022
The WPIAL cleared Lincoln Park transfers Maddie Syka and Abbi Jannuzi to play girls basketball in the regular season this winter after holding separate eligibility hearings Tuesday in Green Tree.
WPIAL purchases building with plans to relocate league office
November 1, 2022
You might say the WPIAL is transferring offices.
Week 9 surprises loomed large as WPIAL football committee paired brackets
October 30, 2022
Some folks count sheep.
‘It’s unfair to our kids,’ says Clairton coach after WPIAL denies home playoff game
October 29, 2022
Wayne Wade was already envisioning one more Friday night in Clairton under the lights and the festivities that accompany a home football game in the WPIAL playoffs.
Breaking down the 2022 WPIAL football playoffs
Class 6A
WPIAL announces 2022 football playoff pairings
Defending WPIAL champions Aliquippa and Bishop Canevin were among the six teams that earned No. 1 seeds for the upcoming football playoffs when brackets were revealed online Saturday on TribLive HSSN.
Girls wrestling moves closer to goal of being sanctioned by PIAA
Someday, the state’s best female wrestlers will be crowned PIAA champions at Giant Center in matches held alongside the boys, if advocates for the sport get their wish.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2022 football playoff pairings
The WPIAL football playoff brackets will be revealed at 2 p.m. Saturday on TribLive HSSN. In the meantime, here’s a look at what those brackets might look like, according to HSSN’s Don Rebel and Chris Harlan.
Capacity crowd sees Aliquippa defeat rival Central Valley with dominant 3rd quarter
Aliquippa’s DJ Walker saw fans standing rows deep along the fence, heard cheers of a capacity crowd and felt the excitement in the cold, October air.
Judge rules Butler football can compete in District 10 playoffs
October 28, 2022
Butler earned its biggest win of the season hours before Friday night’s football game against Latrobe.
5 things to watch in Week 9 of high school football
Almost everyone has an off year once in a while, yet Mars coach Eric Kasperowicz and North Catholic’s Pat O’Shea have never had a team miss the playoffs in their head coaching careers.
Reigning state champions Aliquippa, Central Valley clash in long-awaited Week 9 finale
October 27, 2022
Two high school communities in Beaver County had Oct. 28 marked on their calendars since late February, when the WPIAL first released this season’s football schedules.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan forecast 2022 football playoff pairings
October 26, 2022
Bracketology before the playoff field is set is a curious idea.
Once a critic of PIAA competitive-balance rule, state rep from Beaver County supports overhaul
The PIAA’s plan to remove the transfer criteria from its competitive-balance formula received support Tuesday from a Beaver County legislator who was an outspoken critic of the current rule.
Football fans lining up for coveted Central Valley vs. Aliquippa tickets
October 25, 2022
The hottest ticket in Beaver County isn’t for a British pop star or an 80’s rock band back on tour.
5 things we learned in Week 8 of high school football
October 23, 2022
There were some dark days this fall for the Mohawk football program, but Saturday wasn’t one of them.
OLSH loses star QB in warmups; No. 1 Bishop Canevin clinches 1st conference title since ’11
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart’s Nehemiah Azeem is one of the WPIAL’s top passers, but 15 minutes before kickoff, the Chargers found out they wouldn’t have him in the lineup.
Trib HSSN WPIAL high school football rankings: Week ending Oct. 23, 2022
October 22, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
North Allegheny volleyball looks to finish job after unprecedented regular season dominance
North Allegheny’s girls volleyball team has won five consecutive state titles, but this year’s roster accomplished a feat none of those teams ever did. They played 16 matches this fall and didn’t lose single set — winning them all 3-0.
Central Catholic’s young playmakers lead playoff-clinching win over Seneca Valley
Central Catholic could’ve accepted a penalty for an out-of-bound kickoff and taken the ball at the 35-yard line, but instead told Seneca Valley to re-kick.
5 things to watch in Week 8 of high school football
October 21, 2022
It’s hard to be perfect.
Preseason WPIAL favorites Central Catholic, Seneca Valley now fighting for playoff lives
October 20, 2022
Seneca Valley and Central Catholic were picked as preseason favorites to meet in the WPIAL Class 6A championship before anyone had played a game.
9 WPIAL coaches earn statewide award from PIAA
October 18, 2022
Nine WPIAL coaches were name state coaches of the year by the PIAA for the 2021-22 school year.
WPIAL board increases to 21 seats with diversity advisory council addition
The WPIAL board has expanded to 21 members with the addition of a seat for a representative from the WPIAL Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Council.
PIAA’s reps from WPIAL split on future of competitive-balance rule
October 17, 2022
The WPIAL has three seats on the PIAA board, and its representatives usually vote together, but that didn’t happen when asked about making major changes to the state’s competitive-balance rule.
5 things we learned in Week 7: Central Catholic blocked FG touchdown scorer: ‘I heard no whistle’
October 15, 2022
As a 6-foot-4, 270-pound offensive lineman, Anthony Shovlin says he’d accepted the fact that scoring touchdowns wasn’t in his future, but that changed dramatically Friday night.
TribLive HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 16, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
North Allegheny athletic director concerned by changing definition of amateurism
A groundbreaking name, image and likeness policy proposed by the PIAA cleared a second hurdle this month, meaning Pennsylvania high school athletes soon could be eligible to make money from NIL deals this winter.
Armstrong’s Cadin Olsen capitalizes on Mars’ mistakes in high-scoring Greater Allegheny win
Giving Armstrong quarterback Cadin Olsen short fields, time to pass and extra possessions is a dangerous combination.
5 things to watch in Week 7 of high school football
October 14, 2022
Football coaches will always say Week 7 isn’t the time for nonconference games, since the playoffs are less than a month away and nobody wants to get hurt now in a “meaningless” game.
PIAA rule keeps OLSH football team idle Friday night after Avella forfeits
October 13, 2022
Avella doesn’t have enough healthy players available for this week’s football game against Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, so the Eagles will forfeit the Class A Black Hills Conference contest scheduled for Friday night.
Philadelphia Catholic League teams no longer block WPIAL’s path to PIAA basketball finals
The marquee matchup of state championship weekend became an all-Philadelphia Catholic League affair when Roman Catholic and Archbishop Wood met in Hershey last winter for the Class 6A boys basketball final.
Narrow vote keeps alive potential overhaul of PIAA competitive-balance rule
October 12, 2022
MECHANICSBURG — The PIAA competitive-balance rule was originally created to measure postseason success and transfers, but that formula could change significantly this winter.
NIL policy for Pa. high school athletes clears 2nd hurdle, could be finalized in December
October 11, 2022
MECHANICSBURG — One of Western Pennsylvania’s largest hospital networks had to revamp an advertising campaign that featured WPIAL athletes after the PIAA pointed out the ads violated its rules.
5 things we learned in Week 6: Some teams clinching already
October 8, 2022
It’s too early to start mapping playoff scenarios for most WPIAL football teams, but a select few already have won their way in.
Trib HSSN football rankings for Oct. 9, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
New faces take center ice for perennially powerful North Allegheny hockey program
North Allegheny always had a few familiar names among its top six forwards in recent years, experienced scorers who were there for multiple seasons. Yet, the Tigers are entering a winter of change.
Bethel Park’s offense plays keep away in win over No. 1 Upper St. Clair
October 7, 2022
“The most average line you’ve ever seen.”
5 things to watch in Week 6 of high school football
This could be a make-or-break week for some teams with conference title hopes.
Bethel Park, Upper St. Clair renew rivalry ranked 1st, 2nd in WPIAL Class 5A
October 6, 2022
Bethel Park and Upper St. Clair have combined for a few dramatic regular-season finales in recent years, but WPIAL schedule makers decided there’s no need to wait.
1st-time winners Beaver, Ligonier Valley among WPIAL Sportsmanship Award recipients
October 5, 2022
First-time winners Beaver and Ligonier Valley were among five schools named Wednesday as recipients of the annual WPIAL Sportsmanship Award.
5 things we learned in Week 5: Rodney Gallagher makes history again
October 1, 2022
Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher was 0-3 against conference foe Thomas Jefferson, and his Mustangs were outscored 160-3 in the first three years of his high school football career.
TribLive HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Oct. 2, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
North Allegheny embraces being viewed as underdog, now leads Class 6A
Saying the biggest high school in Western Pennsylvania was overlooked might seem unlikely, but when football season started, North Allegheny’s players didn’t hear much talk about themselves.
Brad Birch leads Gateway to rout of previously unbeaten Hempfield
September 30, 2022
Would anyone have been surprised if Gateway quarterback Brad Birch crashed the halftime homecoming ceremony, took the blue-and-white balloons and named himself Hempfield’s king?
5 things to watch in Week 5 of high school football
In an ultra-competitive Class 5A, Bethel Park, Hempfield and Upper St. Clair are the only WPIAL teams that haven’t lost to a 5A opponent yet this season — a list that keeps getting shorter.
WPIAL rules East Allegheny transfer eligible for regular-season football but not playoffs
September 27, 2022
East Allegheny junior Amir Rollins, a transfer from Penn Hills, is allowed to play football in the regular season, but he remains ineligible for the playoffs, the WPIAL ruled Tuesday.
5 things we learned in Week 4: WPIAL upstarts winning over their doubters
September 24, 2022
The last time Mapletown started a season 5-0, longtime Maples coach George Messich was in middle school and the team’s quarterback was an older boy who lived next door.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 25, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
Talented sophomores pacing defending PIAA champion North Allegheny cross country teams
At this time of year, North Allegheny’s cross country team doesn’t talk much about winning championships, even if the boys and girls are both defending state champs.
North Allegheny tops Central Catholic in low-scoring defensive battle
September 23, 2022
North Allegheny’s Campbell Melzer was upset with himself after missing a tackle on a fourth-quarter hitch route that put Central Catholic in scoring position for a late touchdown.
5 things to watch in Week 4 of high school football
It wasn’t too long ago that West Allegheny was the team to beat in the Parkway Conference, back before the Indians made the jump to 5A.
Westinghouse cements itself as City League favorite with 38-7 win over Allderdice
Keyshawn Morsillo threw three touchdowns Thursday night and helped Westinghouse solidified itself as the team to beat in the City League with a 38-7 victory over Allderdice at Cupples Stadium.
Central Catholic, North Allegheny battle for edge in WPIAL’s unpredictable Class 6A
September 22, 2022
After watching the first few weeks, Central Catholic coach Terry Totten suggests a new plan for finding the best team in 6A.
WPIAL hopes ticket trend continues after topping $2 million in revenue last school year
September 19, 2022
The WPIAL sold more than $2 million in tickets last school year, a jump from recent pre-pandemic days that has the league in solid financial shape.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 17, 2022
September 17, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
5 things we learned in Week 3 of high school football
Pick a word: Unpredictable? Competitive? Chaotic?
Despite revamped roster, North Allegheny girls soccer again off to strong start
The North Allegheny girls soccer team had six starting spots open this season, more than half of the lineup, but what the Tigers also had was depth.
Peters Township overcomes 5 turnovers to defeat South Fayette in Allegheny Six opener
September 16, 2022
Peters Township freshman Reston Lehman scored his first two career touchdowns a minute apart Friday night, one to tie and one to take the lead as the Indians defeated South Fayette, 42-28, in an Allegheny Six opener filled with unpredictable moments.
1st-year QBs lead Peters Township, South Fayette into Allegheny Six opener
T.J. Plack handed the key for Peters Township’s offense to a first-year starting quarterback and told him to drive.
5 things to watch in Week 3 of high school football
Ready or not, it’s conference time.
PIAA puts NIL debate on hold until October
September 14, 2022
A groundbreaking Name, Image and Likeness policy proposed by the PIAA must pass three separate votes to take effect, but that second vote won’t happen this week as initially thought.
Five things we learned in Week 2: WPIAL’s longest losing streak is over
September 10, 2022
Team captains Aaron Hobel and Brighton Mariacher are fourth-year players on Ellwood City’s football team, yet their senior class never had celebrated a win.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 10, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
New coach overhauls boys soccer program at ‘University of North Allegheny’
As a soccer coach who’d reached the college ranks, Manuel Montero wasn’t interested in coaching high school soccer again, but North Allegheny’s unofficial nickname intrigued him.
Penn Hills’ Amir Key scores 3 times in victory over Pine-Richland and his former coach
September 9, 2022
Jon LeDonne spent five seasons building Penn Hills into a big-play dynamo and saw that explosive energy work against his new team Friday night.
What to watch in Week 2: WPIAL’s top passing attack has showdown with Clairton
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart quarterback Nehemiah Azeem has already thrown for almost 700 yards and ranks as the top passer in the WPIAL, but his coach knows what skeptics are probably saying.
Conference opener takes Pine-Richland coach Jon LeDonne back to Penn Hills
September 7, 2022
Yuhas-McGinley Stadium holds fond memories for Jon LeDonne, but what kind of welcome will he receive there Friday night when he’s wearing green instead of the home team’s red and gold?
Hampton transfer Peter Kramer ineligible for basketball playoffs
September 6, 2022
Hampton transfer Peter Kramer, a standout shooting guard who won a WPIAL basketball title at Shady Side Academy, is ineligible for the playoffs this winter.
What we learned in Week 1: New WPIAL approach leads to competitive schedule
September 3, 2022
This was the most competitive Week 1 in recent WPIAL history, but that probably wasn’t a coincidence.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Sept. 4, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
Schedule toughens for 5-time defending PIAA champion North Allegheny girls volleyball team
Section 1 is smaller this season, so the North Allegheny girls volleyball team had to fill some open dates on its schedule.
Steel Valley’s Cruce Brookins follows big blockers in run-heavy win over Sto-Rox
Cruce Brookins predicts that he and Steel Valley teammate Greg Smith could be crashing into one another on a college field in a year or two.
What to watch in Week 1: Laurel Highlands vs. Belle Vernon matches 2 top college recruits
September 2, 2022
Don’t be surprised if a few college coaches make an appearance at Belle Vernon’s football stadium.
Week 1 clash between Sto-Rox, Steel Valley comes 10 months later than they’d hoped
September 1, 2022
Steel Valley’s Cruce Brookins watched maybe a few minutes of last year’s WPIAL Class 2A final. Sto-Rox’s Josh Jenkins couldn’t stomach watching any.
Mohawk cancels Week 1 football game, Quaker Valley seeks new opponent
August 29, 2022
Mohawk canceled its football game for the second week in a row as authorities investigate hazing allegations involving the team.
Five things we learned from Week Zero of WPIAL football
August 27, 2022
When the Woodland Hills defense made a valiant goal-line stand in the fourth quarter Saturday, the result was a win for the Wolverines but also a much-needed win for WPIAL football.
Trib HSSN WPIAL football rankings: Week ending Aug. 28, 2022
WPIAL football rankings
Brad Birch perseveres in pressure-packed opener, lifting Gateway past Mt. Lebanon
Fourth-and-20 is a pressure situation no quarterback wants, but Brad Birch knew where the ball needed to go.After 6 years, 6-classification format still has pros, cons for WPIAL football teams
August 26, 2022
Six for six.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.After 6 years, 6-classification format still has pros, cons for WPIAL football teams
August 25, 2022
Six for six.After 6 years, 6-classification format still has pros, cons for WPIAL football teams
Six for six.
After 6 years, 6-classification format still has pros, cons for WPIAL football teams
Six for six.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the specialists
August 24, 2022
A remarkable WPIAL record is about to turn 20.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
Nearly three dozen WPIAL and City League football teams changed coaches since last season, some involving head coaches who’d spent a decade or more in one place.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the safeties
August 23, 2022
Safety is often the last line of defense, but having a good one can be a weapon for any team.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the cornerbacks
Western Pennsylvania football was always known for its quarterbacks and linemen, but that’s changed in recent decades.
WPIAL title contender Clairton somehow flying under radar
August 22, 2022
Remember Clairton?
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the linebackers
Brashear’s Ta’Mere Robinson is certainly one of the best linebackers in Western Pennsylvania. He’s one of the best in the country. But the Penn State recruit is still recovering from knee surgery, so there’s a good chance he won’t play his senior year.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the defensive line
August 21, 2022
The athletes who play defensive line are maybe the most varied of any group in high school football.
WPIAL Class 5A football breakdown: Gateway among teams trying to squeeze into tight playoff field
August 20, 2022
Earning a WPIAL playoff spot in Class 5A was never easy, but the task becomes a little harder this year.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the offensive line
August 19, 2022
High school football teams deploy a variety of offensive schemes, from no-huddle spreads to the wing-T.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the tight ends
August 18, 2022
The storied history of WPIAL football often focuses on its legendary quarterbacks and, more recently, a string of standout defensive backs.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the wide receivers
August 17, 2022
How’s this for a good quarterback-receiver combination?
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs
August 16, 2022
Take a look at the WPIAL rushing leaders from last season and you’ll notice four state champions.
2022 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks
The race for the 2021 WPIAL passing title was a three-way battle between Gateway’s Brad Birch, Beaver Falls’ Jaren Brickner and Armstrong’s Cadin Olsen.
WPIAL reveals fall championship sites: football finals at Acrisure Stadium, Norwin
August 15, 2022
The WPIAL has chosen Norwin to host the Class 5A and 6A football finals, the two championship games that won’t be played at Acrisure Stadium this year.
Mars slowly but surely acclimating to coach Eric Kasperowicz’s system
August 14, 2022
A new coach, a new quarterback and a new playbook.
With 3rd straight WPIAL title secured, Central Valley’s goals don’t change
August 13, 2022
The Heinz Field clock was ticking down last fall on Central Valley’s third consecutive WPIAL title when coach Mark Lyons was approached by longtime assistant Shawn McCreary.
Expectations soar as defending state champ Aliquippa brings back loaded roster
After winning WPIAL and state championships, expectations couldn’t be any higher for an Aliquippa football team that brings almost everyone back.
Woodland Hills still running with the big dogs in Class 5A
August 12, 2022
Woodland Hills could’ve dropped down two classifications this season because of a statewide change in how enrollment numbers are counted, but the Wolverines declined.
Bolstered by improved offensive line, Gateway builds confidence for run at WPIAL title
August 11, 2022
Gateway’s offensive line was pushed around at times last season by some of the best defensive fronts in the WPIAL, but the Gators say they’re ready to bite back.
South Fayette looks to turn hard-luck losses into conference wins
August 10, 2022
There was a zero in the wins column, but South Fayette’s conference record didn’t tell the entire story.
Short on seniors, Peters Township looks for next wave to take over
Senior night promises to be a short affair at Peters Township.
New football coach Eric Kasperowicz wants to repeat Pine-Richland success at Mars
August 8, 2022
Last names were written on strips of tape and stuck to the forehead of Mars football helmets, a tool to help new coach Eric Kasperowicz and his assistants learn the names a little quicker.
Countdown to kickoff 2022: Cumberland Valley out to show it’s the right site (at the right price) for PIAA finals
August 4, 2022
When the PIAA awarded the state football championships to Cumberland Valley, the sudden exit from Hersheypark Stadium caught most by surprise.
WPIAL rules Thomas Jefferson QB ineligible, approves 2 South Fayette transfers
August 1, 2022
Thomas Jefferson quarterback Luke Kosko, a transfer from Seton LaSalle, was ruled ineligible for the upcoming football season after a hearing Monday with the WPIAL board.
Former WPIAL director organizes P3R youth track event at RMU Island Sports Center
Put away the stopwatches.
Summer camp success has Seneca Valley linebacker Chris D’Appolonia committed to ‘dream school’
July 31, 2022
A broken hand sidelined Seneca Valley linebacker Chris D’Appolonia for a couple of weeks last season and limited his game film, so he was determined this summer to show recruiters his full potential.
As Brashear’s other D1 linebacker, Kameron Cheatom ready to make a name for himself
July 28, 2022
On many other football teams, Kameron Cheatom would be the most talked about player on the roster. At Brashear, that title rightfully belongs to teammate Ta’Mere Robinson, the top-ranked recruit in Pennsylvania.
WPIAL approves extra year of eligibility for Aliquippa athlete injured in shooting
July 25, 2022
The WPIAL approved an extra year of eligibility for Aliquippa’s Antonyo “Sunny” Anderson, a multi-sport athlete who was seriously injured in a shooting 14 months ago.
Former North Allegheny decathlete Ayden Owens-Delerme finishes 4th at World Championships
Since his days running track at North Allegheny, Ayden Owens-Delerme has talked about winning world titles and Olympic medals. This weekend, the NCAA champion decathlete made his World Championships debut and proved those dreams aren’t too far off.
Q&A with new WPIAL executive director Scott Seltzer
July 24, 2022
Scott Seltzer had decided his time with the WPIAL was ending this summer after 13 years on the board and six as board president.
WPIAL administrator: High school NIL deals could lead to manipulation
July 19, 2022
Name, Image and Likeness deals could improve the lives of some high school athletes, but there’s also real concern about manipulation by misguided adults, says the WPIAL’s top administrator.
St. Louis Cardinals draft former Allderdice pitcher Tanner Jacobson in 10th round
Allderdice graduate Tanner Jacobson on Monday became the first player in the short history of Queens University baseball to be picked in the MLB Draft.
Baltimore Orioles draft former Canon-McMillan pitcher Cameron Weston
July 18, 2022
Former Canon-McMillan star Cameron Weston, who helped win WPIAL and PIAA baseball titles in 2018, was selected Monday in the eighth round of the MLB Draft by the Baltimore Orioles.
Seattle Mariners select North Allegheny’s Cole Young in 1st round of MLB Draft
July 17, 2022
Cole Young was introduced to the baseball world as an MLB Pitch, Hit & Run winner in 2014, hinting then that the 10-year-old from Franklin Park might have a bright future ahead.
Amazing year for North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens-Delerme continues at World Championships
July 16, 2022
Ayden Owens-Delerme appears nowadays on TV commercials in Arkansas for a local hospital system, but the recent NCAA decathlon champion is ready to take his track talents global.
TribLive HSSN Preseason Football All-Stars gather, excited for fresh faces
July 15, 2022
Armstrong quarterback Cadin Olsen is a three-year starter, but like many football players across the WPIAL, the senior has a little sense of unfamiliarity heading into the fall.
Brashear linebacker Ta’Mere Robinson chooses Penn State after Nittany Lions ‘stuck with me’
While on his official visit to Penn State, Ta’Mere Robinson had dinner with other recruits and each was asked to stand and introduce himself. Caught up in the moment, the Brashear senior admits he nearly got carried away.
PIAA may strengthen competitive-balance rule by adding all team sports, removing transfers
July 14, 2022
The PIAA appears ready to rewrite its competitive-balance rule to include all team sports while also making it easier to force successful teams into a higher classification.
MLB Draft ‘starting to feel real’ for North Allegheny’s Cole Young
Rather than fly to Los Angeles, Cole Young will spend Sunday closer to home, watching the MLB Draft on television, maybe from his house in Franklin Park. The recent North Allegheny graduate was invited to attend draft festivities on the West Coast, but the likely first-round pick wasn’t lured by the bright lights.
PIAA moves closer to allowing NIL deals for high school athletes
July 13, 2022
Local TV commercials might feature high school football players or a popular basketball star could sell ads on social media.
No more ‘Highway to Heinz,’ but WPIAL plans to hold 4 football finals at Acrisure Stadium
July 11, 2022
The WPIAL football playoffs no longer can be called the “Highway to Heinz,” but the league plans to use the newly named North Shore stadium again this fall for some of its high school football championships.
16-time WPIAL champion boys volleyball coach Dan Schall steps down at North Allegheny
July 9, 2022
Walking away from a defending state champion can be a tough call for a coach, but North Allegheny’s Dan Schall found it “maybe a bit easier” after winning four in a row the way his Tigers just did.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Aliquippa’s Tiqwai Hayes
July 5, 2022
Editor’s note: The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Penn Hills’ Julian Dugger
July 4, 2022
Editor’s note: The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Fox Chapel’s Eli Yofan named 2021-22 Trib HSSN Boys Athlete of the Year
As Eli Yofan celebrated on the 18th green at Cedarbrook Golf Course last fall, a thought unrelated to golf came into his head. He’d just shot a 1-under par round, leading Fox Chapel to a WPIAL team title, but his mind was already on winter.
Armstrong quarterback Cadin Olsen commits to Ivy League school
July 1, 2022
Armstrong’s Cadin Olsen, a dual-threat quarterback and one of the WPIAL’s top passers, committed Friday to Penn.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Aliquippa’s Cameron Lindsey
Editor’s note: The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Beaver’s Payton List, Mt. Lebanon’s Deirdre Flaherty top all-state softball awards
June 30, 2022
Mt. Lebanon catcher Deirdre Flaherty and Beaver pitcher Payton List topped the list of players earning all-state honors Thursday from the Pennsylvania High School Softball Coaches Association.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher
June 29, 2022
Editor’s note: The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
2022 Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year: Bethel Park’s Evan Holewinski
June 27, 2022
2022 Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year
2022 TribLive HSSN Softball All-Stars
June 26, 2022
In WPIAL softball, there’s no requirement for underclassmen to wait their turn.
2022 TribLive HSSN Baseball All-Stars
This was a good year around the WPIAL for dominant pitchers and slick-fielding shortstops.
2022 Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: North Allegheny’s Tyree Alualu
June 24, 2022
Editor’s note: The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 15 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Evan Holewinski pitches 3-hitter, Bethel Park wins back-to-back PIAA titles
June 17, 2022
UNIVERSITY PARK — Rarely does a WPIAL baseball team have a chance to win consecutive state titles, so Bethel Park tried to remember and repeat everything that worked a year ago.
7th-inning rally lifts Montour baseball to 1st state championship
June 16, 2022
UNIVERSITY PARK — This was a scene Montour senior Ryan Gallagher and his teammates had thought about for years, one where they’re together at Penn State celebrating a state baseball championship on the infield grass.
WPIAL notebook: Class 4A boys basketball crowded with champions after realignment
June 13, 2022
Lincoln Park and North Catholic have met in the WPIAL boys basketball finals four times in the past six seasons, but they won’t wait that long to face one another again.
WPIAL approves new basketball sections without addressing public-private concerns
The WPIAL considered some radical ideas such as splitting public and private school basketball teams into separate sections, but ultimately decided that’s a debate for another day.
Thomas Jefferson’s Jordan Mayer commits to Wisconsin
About two months after restarting his recruiting process, Thomas Jefferson’s Jordan Mayer committed Sunday to Wisconsin.
Schalls share final memorable season with North Allegheny boys volleyball
June 11, 2022
Caleb Schall comes from a family where his parents and two uncles played college volleyball, his grandfather won state volleyball titles as a high school coach and his dad now leads powerhouse North Allegheny.
North Allegheny boys volleyball draws PIAA championship rematch with Central Dauphin
June 10, 2022
Some things seem to never change.
Bethel Park eliminates West Allegheny, keeps alive hopes for PIAA championship repeat
June 9, 2022
Bethel Park has seen this story before: The baseball team comes up short in the WPIAL playoffs only to bounce back stronger in the state tournament behind a talented pitcher recruited to Kent State.
Don’t blame ‘WPIAL hangover’ for this PIAA 1st-round loss, says Mt. Lebanon coach
June 6, 2022
The Mt. Lebanon baseball team was on the practice field for a rare early-morning, split-squad scrimmage Saturday, just a few days after winning the WPIAL title. The Blue Devils had six days to get ready for their state playoff opener and tried to use them to their fullest.
Neshannock tops Frazier in WPIAL championship clash of undefeated 2A teams
June 3, 2022
Whenever a Neshannock batter stepped into the Lilley Field batter’s box Friday, a peculiar shout sometimes came from the dugout: Smile.
WPIAL postpones Thursday softball championship games to Friday
June 2, 2022
The WPIAL took a look at the weather forecast and decided to postpone its three softball finals from Thursday to Friday.
West Allegheny outlasts Peters Township to win school’s 5th WPIAL championship
June 1, 2022
Not much has come easy this season for West Allegheny, a team that battled through injuries and plenty of inconvenience to reach Wild Things Park.
Mt. Lebanon squeezes past Upper St. Clair for 1st WPIAL title since 2006
May 31, 2022
Mt. Lebanon waited 16 years for this celebration, so another hour and a half didn’t matter.
New Castle’s Maria Owens turns triple jump frustration into PIAA long jump gold
May 29, 2022
SHIPPENSBURG — New Castle senior Maria Owens was upset with herself a day earlier after a 17th-place finish in the triple jump, disappointed largely by a foul on a big jump.
Moon’s Mia Cochran wins unprecedented ‘triple’ at PIAA championships, celebrates team title alone
May 28, 2022
Moon Area’s Mia Cochran admits the competitor in her likes a challenge, but she hasn’t found many on the track recently.
WPIAL runners sweep 3,200-meter races at PIAA championships
SHIPPENSBURG — Eden Christian’s Sean Aiken attempted the 3,200 meters for the first time a couple of months ago, and he really didn’t like running nearly two miles.
Deer Lakes’ Carson McCoy celebrates another come-from-behind win at PIAA championships
SHIPPENSBURG — Carson McCoy apologized after his latest come-from-behind victory, knowing he’d just ruthlessly dashed the hopes of the same opponent for the third time.
Shenango thrower Emma Callahan ties shot put record at PIAA championships
SHIPPENSBURG — The target distance on Shenango thrower Emma Callahan’s mind was 50 feet, 10¾ inches, which was the state championship record for girls shot put in Class 2A.
Moon’s Mia Cochran wins 1,600 meters, wants 2 more golds at busy PIAA championship
May 27, 2022
SHIPPENSBURG — After defending her state 1,600-meter title Friday morning, Moon’s Mia Cochran revealed the top item on her afternoon agenda.
Deer Lakes’ Carson McCoy defends 1,600-meter title at PIAA championships
SHIPPENSBURG — Carson McCoy maybe isn’t a front runner, yet the Deer Lakes senior usually crosses the finish line first.
As Emma Callahan chases shot put records, spotlight shines on Shenango’s success
May 26, 2022
From Emma Callahan’s view, she’d just set a WPIAL championship record, but the Shenango shot putter also knew it’s hard to see from the circle.
Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher commits to play football at West Virginia
May 25, 2022
Keeping his family close was important to Rodney Gallagher, so he did what countless other Western Pennsylvania football recruits have done and committed to his hometown team.
Bethel Park hires former WPIAL basketball star Dante Calabria as boys coach
Dante Calabria, a former WPIAL basketball star who won a national championship at North Carolina, was hired Tuesday as boys coach at Bethel Park.
No. 1 Mt. Lebanon breaks ‘curse’ with quarterfinal win over Seneca Valley
May 23, 2022
A seventh-inning curveball glanced off Mt. Lebanon catcher Paul Connolly’s mitt and rolled away, causing a moment of panic since there was a runner on third and a one-run lead.
Pine-Richland relay sprints to school record, WPIAL gold medal
May 22, 2022
Luke Rudolph insisted he’s not as fast as the relay runner he replaced, but the results say otherwise.
North Catholic sprinter Trevor Paschall’s season in question after WPIAL championship injury
May 19, 2022
North Catholic’s Trevor Paschall is usually sprinting around the WPIAL track championships faster than most anybody, but Wednesday he accepted help from a teammate just to walk.
Moon’s Mia Cochran adding to track legacy by winning 3 WPIAL individual titles
May 18, 2022
What more could Mia Cochran have to prove?
Life journey of North Allegheny runners Wren and Robin Kucler covers thousands of miles
As an 8-year-old, Wren Kucler told her mom she wanted to run around the house 100 times. That’s a lot of running for a little girl, but her mom Deanna saw no reason to discourage her, so she said, “Go ahead. Knock yourself out.”
South Fayette’s Tyler Pitzer dazzles Franklin Regional with 5-inning perfect game
This outing was perfect for South Fayette pitcher Tyler Pitzer in more ways than one.
WPIAL hires chief operating officer to ease workload of executive director
May 16, 2022
The role of the WPIAL executive director has changed over the years, with social media bringing more and more issues to the league’s attention, said outgoing director Amy Scheuneman.
WPIAL baseball playoff bracket breakdown
May 13, 2022
Favorite: Mt. Lebanon could win its first WPIAL baseball title since 2006. The Blue Devils started this season 1-4 before finding their stride in section play behind OF Tanner Donati (.435, 20 RBIs, 12 extra-base hits). They’ve won 10 of their past 12 games, including a 2-1 victory over North Allegheny. Seniors Derrick Shields and Jack Smith combined are 7-1 with 89 Ks in 61 innings. Shields is an IUP recruit and Smith is headed to Harvard.
WPIAL announces 2022 baseball playoff brackets
Montour hasn’t won a WPIAL baseball title in 50 years, but the Spartans will start this year’s playoffs as the favorites in Class 4A.
Defending champions Beaver, West Greene among No. 1 seeds in WPIAL softball playoffs
May 12, 2022
Two undefeated teams. Two more strong section champions. A defending WPIAL champion with only three losses.
WPIAL reveals brackets for boys, girls lacrosse playoffs
The defending champion Mars boys and Shady Side Academy girls were among the four teams that earned top seeds in the WPIAL lacrosse playoff brackets revealed Thursday.
Butler boys dominate field, win WPIAL Class 3A team track title
May 11, 2022
The Butler boys arrived at the WPIAL team championships with a mission: eliminate any suspense about who might be the winner.
Tim McConnell accepts Bishop Canevin job after resigning as Chartiers Valley coach
Tim McConnell had walked into Chartiers Valley’s gym countless times, but the longtime basketball coach felt somewhat sentimental when he entered Tuesday morning.
Quaker Valley’s Adou Thiero commits to play basketball at Kentucky
May 8, 2022
Quaker Valley senior Adou Thiero committed Sunday to play basketball for Kentucky and coach John Calipari, who also coached Thiero’s father at Memphis in the early 2000s.
WPIAL trio earns all-state honors in Class 6A boys basketball
The PIAA’s largest boys basketball classification is often dominated by Eastern Pennsylvania teams, but three WPIAL players made the all-state team for Class 6A.
WPIAL Hall of Fame inductee Burke blazed trail for women’s sports in Western Pennsylvania
May 7, 2022
The WPIAL has been around for more than 100 years, but the organization was exclusively for boys until Ruth Ann Burke and some like-minded colleagues insisted that must change.
TribHSSN baseball rankings for May 8, 2022
Class 6A
Trib HSSN WPIAL softball rankings: Week ending May 8, 2022
Class 6A
‘Fearless’ Connor Smith emerges as North Allegheny’s ace
Connor Smith likes to experiment with his pitch grips, so when his favorite MLB pitcher shared a splitter setup on a podcast, the North Allegheny right-hander had to give it a try.
Rain soaks Baldwin Invitational but doesn’t dim Quaker Valley hurdler’s sunny outlook
A cold rain drenched everyone at the Baldwin Invitational, but Quaker Valley hurdler Nora Johns was among those not too bothered by the wet weather.
WPIAL lands 3 players on Class 5A all-state boys basketball team
New Castle and Laurel Highlands combined for one of the most competitive WPIAL finals in recent memory, a matchup decided in double overtime by two last-second free throws.
Quaker Valley teammates, coach Mike Mastroianni earn all-state honors in Class 4A
May 6, 2022
Adou Thiero and Markus Frank formed a dynamic duo for Quaker Valley, which celebrated the most successful boys basketball season in school history this winter.
Steel Valley’s Makhai Valentine among 4 all-state selections from WPIAL Class 3A
May 5, 2022
Steel Valley junior Makhai Valentine, who ranked among the WPIAL’s top scorers this winter, earned first-team all-state honors Thursday when the Class 3A awards were announced.
OLSH’s Jake DiMichele, coach Mike Rodriguez earn top honors on Class 2A all-state team
May 4, 2022
Jake DiMichele went three years without a loss as Our Lady of the Sacred Heart won its second state title this winter and tied a state record with a 68-game winning streak in a historic season. DiMichele, a senior, finished his high school career as the second-leading scorer in WPIAL history with 2,642 points.
No shot clock for Pennsylvania high schools, says PIAA basketball committee
May 3, 2022
Time is running out for shot clock advocates.
WPIAL postpones team track semifinals to Wednesday
The WPIAL postponed its team track semifinals to Wednesday because of an unfavorable weather forecast Tuesday that included afternoon rain and possible thunderstorms.
Bishop Canevin teammates, coach Gino Palmosina earn Class A boys basketball all-state honors
Bishop Canevin celebrated the school’s first boys basketball state title this winter and the Crusaders were rewarded for that accomplishment again Tuesday.
All-state boys basketball teams to be announced this week starting with non-PIAA schools
May 2, 2022
The boys basketball all-state teams will be announced one classification per day this week starting with non-PIAA schools.
Trib HSSN WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending May 1, 2022
Class 6A
North Allegheny, 5 other schools join Steelers-sponsored girls flag football league
There’s a new high school football league in Western Pennsylvania sponsored by the Pittsburgh Steelers and created entirely for girls.
21 WPIAL girls basketball players earn all-state honors, Neshannock’s Luann Grybowski named top coach
April 28, 2022
Twenty-one WPIAL girls basketball players earned all-state honors Thursday, and Neshannock’s Luann Grybowski was named Class 2A Coach of the Year after leading the Lancers to a state championship this winter.
Former South Fayette softball player Lauren Bernett dies
April 26, 2022
The James Madison softball program Tuesday was mourning the death of sophomore catcher Lauren Bernett, a South Fayette graduate who helped the Dukes reach the College World Series a year ago.
WPIAL hires board president Scott Seltzer as executive director
April 25, 2022
WPIAL board president Scott Seltzer will take over as executive director this summer, replacing outgoing director Amy Scheuneman as the league’s top administrator.
Pitt, Penn State, WVU among college finalists for Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher
April 24, 2022
Pitt, Penn State and West Virginia remain in the hunt for Laurel Highland’s Rodney Gallagher, the state’s top football recruit in the 2023 class.
TribHSSN WPIAL baseball rankings: Week ending April 24, 2022
Class 6A
Gino Palmosina resigns at Canevin weeks after winning PIAA boys basketball title
April 22, 2022
Boys basketball coach Gino Palmosina is a candidate for a job elsewhere, so he resigned Thursday from alma mater Bishop Canevin, where he won WPIAL and state titles this winter.
Simmering public vs. private dispute leads Bishop Canevin contingent to protest at Carlynton track meet
April 21, 2022
The always-contentious public vs. private debate usually sticks to high school football and basketball, but a track meet became the backdrop for an unprecedented student protest.
Delayed 2 years by pandemic, PIHL adds girls division for high school hockey
April 17, 2022
Morgan Black was the leading scorer on a national championship hockey team this winter, but she has never worn her high school’s logo on any jersey. That’s because for a girl to play high school hockey in Western Pennsylvania, she always had to play against the boys.
Trib HSSN baseball rankings for April 16, 2022
Class 6A
North Allegheny Athletic Hall of Fame class offers tribute to 50th anniversary of Title IX
State champion swimmer Jacquelyn Du and record-setting field hockey player Emily Humiston are among 11 individuals chosen for induction into the North Allegheny Athletic Hall of Fame this year.
WPIAL executive director Amy Scheuneman joining Pittsburgh Marathon organizer P3R
April 15, 2022
WPIAL executive director Amy Scheuneman is leaving her job as the district’s top administrator to join P3R, which organizes races in Western Pennsylvania, including the Pittsburgh Marathon.
Amy Scheuneman resigning as WPIAL executive director after spring sports championships
April 14, 2022
Amy Scheuneman’s tenure as WPIAL executive director is ending this spring after two years.
WPIAL athletic directors want basketball sections divided by ability not enrollment
What if basketball sections were determined by a team’s talent level rather than its school enrollment?
WPIAL notebook: Kiski Area doesn’t want to share section with Penn Hills
April 13, 2022
The racially charged dispute between Penn Hills and Kiski Area wasn’t resolved, so the WPIAL may keep those teams apart in future years.
WPIAL announces James Collins Scholar/Athlete Award winners
The WPIAL on Wednesday announced winners of the James Collins Scholar/Athlete Awards. This is the 31st year for the awards, which include a $1,000 scholarship for each recipient.
Mars hires former Pine-Richland football coach Eric Kasperowicz
April 12, 2022
Only four miles separate the football stadiums of Pine-Richland and Mars, but the journey that took Eric Kasperowicz from one to the other followed a winding road.
Football coach Eric Kasperowicz poised to make WPIAL return at Mars
April 11, 2022
Mars is prepared to hire football coach Eric Kasperowicz, bringing the two-time state champion coach back to the WPIAL a year after his ouster at Pine-Richland.
Trib HSSN baseball rankings for April 9, 2022
Class 6A
North Allegheny softball team confident after strong start to 2022 season
Morgan Vescovi was hired as North Allegheny’s softball coach in 2019, but counting seasons is always a tricky task because the pandemic erased 2020.
Trinity hires former Chartiers Valley football coach Dan Knause
April 8, 2022
After working five years to build up his alma mater’s football program, coach Dan Knause will take on a new project elsewhere.
Lacrosse officials demand pay increase in disruptive dispute with WPIAL schools
April 6, 2022
A number of Western Pennsylvania boys lacrosse officials are taking a timeout from working varsity games unless WPIAL schools give them a pay raise.
North Catholic hires former Pitt, Duquesne basketball assistant as athletic director
April 5, 2022
Bill Barton, a former assistant college basketball coach at Pitt and Duquesne, is returning to Western Pennsylvania as athletic director at North Catholic.
WPIAL lacrosse match rescheduled after officials decline to accept assignment
A simmering discontent by officials about pay and travel forced Trinity to reschedule a boys lacrosse game, but the WPIAL was optimistic the season won’t be disrupted by a widespread work stoppage.
Quaker Valley’s Adou Thiero named 2022 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball Player of the Year
April 4, 2022
2022 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball Player of the Year
2022 TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball All-Stars | Terrific 10
This was a history-making year for WPIAL boys basketball with Our Lady of the Sacred Heart leading the way.
2022 TribLive HSSN Girls Basketball All-Stars | Terrific 10
This season marked the end of an era for some WPIAL girls basketball programs or maybe just the beginning for others.
TribHSSN softball rankings for April 2, 2022
Class 6A
With big-time talent, North Allegheny baseball team sets big goals
At least a dozen pro scouts watched North Allegheny’s baseball scrimmage, an early indication the Tigers have an eventful season ahead.
Butler files lawsuit against PIAA in fight over District 10 football playoffs
March 31, 2022
The WPIAL has no grounds to ban the Butler football team from the District 10 playoffs, says a lawsuit the school district has filed against the PIAA.
Philadelphia basketball teams are here to stay in PIAA, says District 12 chairman
Philadelphia teams joined the PIAA basketball playoffs less than two decades ago, and District 12’s top administrator says his schools are here to stay, despite any wishful thinking by opponents.
PIAA to survey schools about adding basketball shot clock in 2024
March 30, 2022
Reset the clock.
PIAA basketball committee readies for shot clock discussion this week
March 29, 2022
Shot clock or no shot clock?
Philadelphia basketball teams are here to stay in PIAA, says District 12 chairman
March 28, 2022
Philadelphia teams joined the PIAA basketball playoffs less than two decades ago, but District 12’s top administrator says his schools are here to stay, despite any wishful thinking by opponents.
Chartiers Valley football coach Dan Knause resigns after 5 seasons for job elsewhere
Chartiers Valley football coach Dan Knause is a candidate for a job elsewhere, so he resigned Monday after five seasons with the Colts.
Public school criticism of state basketball playoffs ‘sour grapes,’ says PIAA director
Traditional public schools won only two of the 12 state basketball titles celebrated this weekend in Hershey, the fewest since the PIAA expanded the sport to six classifications in 2016.
Long scoreless stretch dashes Aliquippa’s hopes for state basketball title
March 26, 2022
HERSHEY — Aliquippa reached the state finals with four sophomores in the starting lineup, and that youth maybe showed itself at the worst time.
Freedom falls to Neumann-Goretti in 1st state championship appearance
HERSHEY – Freedom wanted to win a state title in its first trip to Hershey, but the championship trophy went home with a team that already owned four.
2022 PIAA Class 3A girls basketball championship breakdown: Freedom vs. Neumann-Goretti
PIAA Class 3A girls basketball final
2022 PIAA Class 3A boys basketball championship breakdown: Aliquippa vs. Devon Prep
PIAA Class 3A boys basketball final
Nationally ranked Imhotep Charter dashes New Castle’s hopes for state championship
March 25, 2022
HERSHEY — New Castle wanted to hold for the final shot of the first half, yet Imhotep Charter grabbed a rebound, hit a buzzer-beating 3 and ran to the locker room up 11.
OLSH wins historic PIAA title, ties state record with 68 straight wins
HERSHEY — “Historic” is now the perfect word to describe Our Lady of the Sacred Heart’s dominance.
2022 PIAA Class 5A boys basketball championship breakdown: New Castle vs. Imhotep Charter
PIAA Class 5A boys basketball final
2022 PIAA Class 2A boys basketball championship breakdown: OLSH vs. Constitution
PIAA Class 2A boys basketball final
Quaker Valley falls to Philadelphia power Neumann-Goretti in state finals
March 24, 2022
HERSHEY — Adou Thiero blocked three first-quarter shots, Quaker Valley scored 11 consecutive points and the Quakers held a slim lead over an eight-time state champion.
Balanced attack earns Bishop Canevin 1st PIAA boys basketball title
HERSHEY — This state championship celebration was years in the making for Bishop Canevin, with some waiting longer than others to see the Crusaders finally win one.
2022 PIAA Class 4A boys basketball championship breakdown: Quaker Valley vs. Neumann-Goretti
PIAA Class 4A boys basketball final
Potential NFL path draws Thomas Jefferson’s Jordan Mayer to Boston College
March 23, 2022
Jordan Mayer is very good at getting his arms around quarterbacks, but when the Thomas Jefferson junior committed to Boston College, he was the one wrapped up.
PIAA semifinal win gives Aliquippa chance for rare football-basketball championship double
March 19, 2022
Aliquippa is headed to Hershey for the second time in three months, chasing after a rare football-basketball double state championship.
Rumpler 2nd-place finish at states a boon for North Allegheny girls wrestling team
North Allegheny didn’t have a girls wresting team two years ago, yet the Tigers saw a girl finish second in the state this winter.
Mike Wells shakes off sore elbow, leads New Castle to 1st PIAA finals since ’14
March 18, 2022
Mike Wells’ elbow was still hurting him, but that didn’t hide his happiness as New Castle fans rained Hershey’s Kisses on the Red Hurricanes’ postgame celebration.
PIAA reveals sites, times for state basketball semifinals
March 17, 2022
Peters Township will host a PIAA semifinal Saturday between the Chartiers Valley and McKeesport girls, one of four all-WPIAL pairings in the final four of the state basketball tournament.
Aliquippa finds ‘happy balance,’ tops Avonworth for 3rd time in PIAA quarterfinals
March 16, 2022
After missing a few long jumpers in the first quarter, Aliquippa’s D.J. Walker understood why he was being called to the bench and the junior didn’t argue.
PIAA announces sites, times for Friday’s state basketball semifinals
The PIAA chose Norwin as host site for the rematch of New Castle and Gateway, one of two all-WPIAL pairings in the state basketball semifinals.
New Castle wins ‘fist fight’ over Penn Hills in low-scoring PIAA quarterfinal
How do you describe a game with more than a dozen blocks, more than two dozen turnovers, and the first team to score 40 points won?
Gateway stuns Laurel Highlands, earns 1st appearance in state basketball semifinals
March 15, 2022
There will be a WPIAL rematch in the state semifinals, but Laurel Highlands won’t be there.
WPIAL approves new section alignment for next 2 wrestling seasons
March 14, 2022
Say goodbye to the subsections.
WPIAL rejects Butler’s compromise, leaving football team ineligible for District 10 playoffs
The WPIAL rejected a compromise offered Monday by Butler’s administration that would’ve let the school’s football team play in the District 10 playoffs for the next two seasons.
‘Relentless’ Fox Chapel tops Allderdice in PIAA battle of district champions
March 12, 2022
With only one player taller than 6-foot-2, Fox Chapel maybe doesn’t look like a team built to outrebound many opponents.
PIAA announces sites, times for Tuesday’s basketball quarterfinals
The WPIAL is guaranteed to have a boys team in the Class 5A state championship with Laurel Highlands, New Castle, Gateway and Penn Hills all reaching the quarterfinals.
Unbeaten Laurel Highlands rallies past Highlands in OT, moves into quarterfinals
March 11, 2022
Laurel Highlands celebrated its 27th consecutive win Friday night, but this victory over Highlands followed a different script than the first 26.
PIAA girls basketball sites, times set for 2nd round playoff games
March 10, 2022
Section foes South Fayette and Moon will meet for the third time this season Saturday in a PIAA second-round playoff game at Peters Township.
PIAA announces playoff sites, times for boys basketball 2nd round
Peters Township will host a clash of champions Saturday when WPIAL champion Fox Chapel faces City League champion Allderdice in the PIAA boys basketball playoffs.
Allderdice advances in PIAA playoffs with overtime win against Central Catholic
March 9, 2022
Mike Quigley has a favorite rim in Allderdice’s gym, one that he’s found is a little softer than the other.
Penn Hills refuses to play Kiski Area sports teams this spring over alleged racial taunts
Penn Hills won’t play games against Kiski Area teams this spring because of racial taunts allegedly made by fans during a recent middle school volleyball game.
PIAA releases sites, times for Friday 2nd-round basketball playoff games
The PIAA released sites and times for second-round matchups in the state basketball playoff scheduled for Friday.
‘Special run’ might await Quaker Valley after PIAA 1st-round win over Hickory
March 8, 2022
The Hickory boys basketball team was in Hershey last winter, playing at Giant Center with a chance to win a state championship.
After incident in WPIAL semifinals, should postgame handshake lines continue?
March 7, 2022
Should handshake lines disappear from the WPIAL?
Sites, times revealed for 2022 PIAA girls basketball 1st-round playoff games
March 6, 2022
The PIAA on Sunday posted sites and times for first-round games in the state girls basketball playoffs. Here’s a list of games involving WPIAL and City League teams.
PIAA announces sites, times for 2022 boys basketball 1st-round playoff games
The PIAA on Sunday posted sites and times for first-round games in the state boys basketball playoffs. Here’s a list of games involving WPIAL and City League teams.
Fox Chapel stuns top-seeded North Hills to win 1st WPIAL title in 45 years
March 5, 2022
Eli Yofan celebrated with the WPIAL trophy in his hands Saturday night, but he also acknowledged the fingerprints his teammates left all over this championship win.
2022 WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball championship breakdown: North Hills vs. Fox Chapel
WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball
2022 WPIAL Class 2A boys basketball championship breakdown: OLSH vs. Fort Cherry
WPIAL Class 2A boys basketball
Rodney Gallagher’s free throws in final second of double OT lift Laurel Highlands past New Castle in WPIAL Class 5A final
March 4, 2022
Same arena. Same prize. There was a little less time on the clock when Rodney Gallagher walked to the foul line this year, but he made sure the outcome was also exactly the same.
2022 WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship breakdown: Laurel Highlands vs. New Castle
No. 1 Laurel Highlands vs. No. 2 New Castle
2022 WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball championship breakdown: Shady Side Academy vs. Avonworth
No. 3 Shady Side Academy vs. No. 8 Avonworth
Adou Thiero seals victory as Quaker Valley edges Montour for WPIAL Class 4A title
March 3, 2022
Adou Thiero endured the pain of a fractured thumb to avoid the hurt of another silver medal.
2022 Big School East-West roster includes nearly 2 dozen WPIAL, City League players
State champions from Aliquippa, Mt. Lebanon and Penn-Trafford were among nearly two dozen WPIAL and City League players announced Thursday as all-stars for the Big School East-West Game this spring.
11 WPIAL, City League football players picked for 2022 Small School East-West Game
The WPIAL’s leading rusher was among 11 WPIAL and City League players chosen Thursday for the Small School East-West Game this spring.
2022 WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship breakdown: Quaker Valley vs. Montour
No. 1 Quaker Valley vs. No. 2 Montour
What to watch in WPIAL finals: North Hills boys, 3 others seek 1st basketball title
North Hills senior Alex Smith and his older brother Nick have a strong sibling rivalry that carries over to the basketball court.
No. 1 North Hills reaches WPIAL finals with low-scoring win over Mt. Lebanon
March 1, 2022
Mt. Lebanon is notorious for consuming clock with long possessions, but when the Blue Devils did so Tuesday night, it was often because they found no easy route to the rim.
14 WPIAL players chosen for 2022 Big 33 Football Classic
Fourteen players from the WPIAL were selected Tuesday for the Big 33 Football Classic, including four from Mt. Lebanon’s state championship team and two from Penn-Trafford.
Defending champion New Castle reaches WPIAL finals for 8th time in 11 years
February 28, 2022
The road to the WPIAL championship winds through gyms all across Western Pennsylvania, but New Castle rarely gets lost along the way.
North Allegheny relies on balance in quest for 3rd straight Penguins Cup championship
February 27, 2022
As the hockey schedule reached late February, North Allegheny’s Connor Chi pushed his season-long scoring streak to 19 games. The senior recorded at least one goal or assist in every contest, cementing his spot as an elite scorer.
Quaker Valley’s Adou Thiero scores 25 in semifinal win despite fractured thumb
February 26, 2022
Adou Thiero wore tape on the knee he injured last winter and a wrap on the thumb he fractured earlier this week.
Freshman Rylee Kalocay’s late-game heroics take Upper St. Clair back to WPIAL finals
Upper St. Clair freshman Rylee Kalocay didn’t start Saturday’s semifinal, but she certainly finished it.
No. 1 North Hills celebrates 4th win over rival North Allegheny in WPIAL quarterfinals
February 25, 2022
As the saying goes, it’s tough to beat a basketball team three times in one season, but what about four? The sold-out crowd that packed into North Hills’ gym was there to find out.
Ellwood City basketball coach Steve Antuono suspended 2 games after chaotic playoff loss
Game officials imposed a two-game suspension on Ellwood City boys basketball coach Steve Antuono for unsportsmanlike actions during a chaotic ending to Thursday night’s playoff loss.
Gateway upsets No. 3 Mars, earns 1st WPIAL semifinal appearance since 2012
February 24, 2022
Gateway was only a couple of minute away from upsetting No. 3 seed Mars, but for the Gators, those final moments seemed to last forever.
Schools get some say as WPIAL releases football schedules for 2022, ’23 seasons
The WPIAL tried a new approach for scheduling nonconference football games this year by giving teams a say in who they play.
WPIAL schedules 3 basketball semifinals at Robert Morris’ UPMC Events Center
The WPIAL has scheduled three basketball semifinals at Robert Morris’ UPMC Events Center on Saturday starting with top-seeded Quaker Valley facing defending champion Lincoln Park in a Class 4A boys game at noon.
Confident and now healthy, star freshman Meleek Thomas leads Lincoln Park past North Catholic
Sharing the court with a couple of scorers bound for Division I colleges might make some freshmen timid. Not Lincoln Park’s Meleek Thomas, who waved for the basketball when the Leopards needed a fourth-quarter boost Wednesday night.
Butler plans legal action after PIAA upholds WPIAL ruling keeping football team out of District 10 playoffs
February 23, 2022
Butler intends to take legal action after the PIAA upheld a decision banning the football team from the District 10 playoffs, said the school’s athletic director.
PIAA football, soccer championships moving from Hershey to Cumberland Valley
Say goodbye to flying Hershey’s Kisses and giant chocolate bars. Pennsylvania high school athletes will have to find a new way to celebrate trips to the state championships.
Strong 1st quarter leads No. 8 North Allegheny past No. 9 Baldwin in WPIAL playoff opener
February 22, 2022
Tuesday marked the playoff opener for the North Allegheny boys, but the Tigers felt they’d already had a postseason mindset for a while now.
Steel Valley knocks out No. 4 Seton LaSalle with 1-2 punch in WPIAL playoff upset
February 21, 2022
Steel Valley’s Makhai Valentine wears No. 1 and teammate Cruce Brookins is No. 2, fitting for a combination that delivered a knockout punch Monday night.
WPIAL suspends former Greensburg Central Catholic assistant football coach for recruiting
The WPIAL has suspended a former Greensburg Central Catholic assistant football coach for violating PIAA rules against recruiting.
North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens lands at Arkansas with record-setting splash
February 19, 2022
Ayden Owens felt the sunshine of Southern California and the cold of Ann Arbor, Mich., in his first three years of college. Nowadays, you’ll find the former North Allegheny star breaking track and field records down south in Fayetteville, Ark.
Grandfather-grandson duo works together officiating WPIAL basketball games
February 17, 2022
When Matthew White was a little kid, he enjoyed going to high school basketball games and seeing the officials, because his grandfather was one of them.
WPIAL asks playoff basketball teams: ‘What have you done for me lately?’
February 15, 2022
The WPIAL basketball committee had a question for playoff teams: “What have you done for me lately?”
Breaking down the 2022 WPIAL boys basketball playoff brackets
February 14, 2022
Class 6A
Tough decisions prompt debate as WPIAL announces 2021-22 basketball playoff brackets
Laurel Highlands or New Castle? Mt. Lebanon or North Allegheny?
North Allegheny’s Cole Young projected as 1st-round pick in MLB Draft
February 13, 2022
Cole Young has a Twitter account, so the North Allegheny senior usually notices whenever someone publishes a new MLB mock draft or an updated list of high school baseball prospects.
WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel forecast 2021-22 girls basketball pairings
The February Frenzy is about to heat up as WPIAL basketball teams hop on the Path to the Pete.
WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel forecast 2021-22 boys basketball pairings
February 12, 2022
The February Frenzy is about to heat up as WPIAL basketball teams hop on the Path to the Pete.
Trib HSSN WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 13, 2022
Class 6A
Trib HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 13, 2022
Class 6A
Fox Chapel survives Eli Yofan injury scare, clinches sole possession of section title
February 11, 2022
Fox Chapel’s Eli Yofan went from laying under the hoop in pain in the third quarter to swinging on the rim in celebration in the fourth.
WPIAL asks Greensburg Central Catholic to explain possible recruiting violations
February 10, 2022
The WPIAL is looking into possible recruiting violations by Greensburg Central Catholic.
North Allegheny wrestling coach Sunny Abe resigns prior to postseason tournaments
February 9, 2022
North Allegheny wrestling coach Sanshiro “Sunny” Abe, a former NCAA champion and Olympic wrestler, resigned with one meet left in the regular season and the individual tournaments still ahead.
New Castle’s Joe Cowart resigns after 10 seasons, sent 2 former players to NFL
Not many WPIAL football coaches have had two former players active in the NFL at the same time, but New Castle’s Joe Cowart did during his coaching tenure, which came to a close this winter.
Aliquippa ‘hitting stride,’ defeats Seton LaSalle for 1st-place tie in Section 2
A young basketball team can age considerably in the short span of 25 days.
Pine-Richland hires Penn Hills’ Jon LeDonne as football coach
February 7, 2022
As a parent with three kids in the district, Jon LeDonne already wore a number of hats around Pine-Richland. Scorekeeper for middle school basketball. Coach for a fourth-grade girls team. Scorers’ table duty at youth wrestling matches.
Mt. Lebanon’s Bob Palko named Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year
February 6, 2022
Mt. Lebanon football coach Bob Palko, who led the Blue Devils to their first state championship, was named the 2021 Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year on Sunday.
With longtime coach out of retirement, North Allegheny swim teams out to achieve more excellence
Longtime North Allegheny swimming coach Corky Semler didn’t hesitate when athletic director Bob Bozzuto asked if he was interested in coming out of retirement this winter.
Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings for Feb. 5, 2022
Class 6A
Butler finds ‘desperation mode,’ boosts playoffs hopes by defeating Pine-Richland
One team in Butler’s brutal section may be left home when the playoffs start, which has the Golden Tornado convinced it can’t lose another game.
WPIAL delays release of football schedules over ‘unique situation’ with Aliquippa
February 3, 2022
The WPIAL decided not to release new football schedules this week because of a “unique situation” facing one of its schools.
Western Pa.’s Top 10 football prospects for the Class of 2023
Some of the nation’s top college football recruiters will visit Western Pennsylvania often in the coming months, because the WPIAL and City League have an uncommitted four-star Rivals recruit in the 2023 class.
WPIAL disciplines South Side, Steel Valley football after hearing on racial allegations
February 2, 2022
The South Side and Steel Valley football teams must complete educational training organized by the WPIAL to “further develop cultural competency” after their playoff game in November ended with accusations of unsportsmanlike conduct and racial slurs.
Shady Side Academy tops No. 4 South Allegheny to narrow section title race
Shady Side Academy used quickness and aggression to build a 10-point, fourth-quarter lead Tuesday night, a favorable position where many teams might then slow the tempo.
Clairton’s Tyler Boyd extends Super Bowl streak for Big 33 Football Classic
January 31, 2022
Thanks to former Clairton star Tyler Boyd, the Big 33 Football Classic’s Super Bowl streak lives on.
TribHSSN girls basketball rankings for Jan. 29, 2022
Class 6A
Greensburg Central Catholic boys hold off Winchester Thurston, take over 1st place
January 28, 2022
Greensburg Central Catholic and Winchester Thurston were scheduled to meet three weeks ago, but that boys basketball game was postponed, so the teams could only study one another from a distance.
Aliquippa plans to build new football stadium, receives $250,000 from NFL
Aliquippa’s aging football stadium will be torn down and rebuilt this year with a little help from the NFL.
Hampton hiring new football coach as Jacque DeMatteo ends 14-year stint
January 27, 2022
For the first time in 14 years, Hampton soon will have a new football coach.
Aliquippa wins PIAA appeal, remains in Class 4A football
January 26, 2022
Add another win to Aliquippa’s record.
Moon’s Mia Cochran repeats as Pa. Gatorade girls cross country award winner
January 25, 2022
Moon’s Mia Cochran has defended yet another cross country title.
With heavy hearts, OLSH ties WPIAL record for longest winning streak
As Our Lady of the Sacred Heart made WPIAL history Monday night, the boys basketball team wasn’t focused on what it was playing for, but rather who.
Mt. Lebanon’s Alex Tecza commits to Navy football, joining Blue Devils teammate
January 24, 2022
Mt. Lebanon’s Alex Tecza has played football with teammate Eli Heidenreich for as long as he can remember. As it turns out, high school graduation won’t break their bond.
TribHSSN girls basketball rankings for Jan. 22, 2022
Class 6A
North Allegheny AD Bozzuto sees future Class 6A football alignment with larger field
North Allegheny athletic director Bob Bozzuto has a forward-thinking mindset when it comes to football conference realignment. The ink barely has dried on WPIAL plans for the next two seasons, but he’s ready to start thinking about 2024 and ’25.
Markus Frank’s knack around basket leads unbeaten Quaker Valley past Lincoln Park
Quaker Valley’s Markus Frank has a knack for scoring around the rim from angles that seem almost impossible, yet he makes them with ease.
Former football coach Eric Kasperowicz drops lawsuit against Pine-Richland, hopes to reclaim job
January 21, 2022
Former Pine-Richland football coach Eric Kasperowicz is dropping his defamation lawsuit against the school district and its administrators in hopes of reclaiming his coaching job.
Laurel girls basketball coach resigns midseason, says ‘hand was forced’
January 20, 2022
The Laurel girls basketball team is trying to reach the WPIAL playoffs for the fifth year in a row, but the Spartans must do so without their head coach.
Imani Christian hires LaRoi Johnson as football coach
Football coach LaRoi Johnson is returning to his roots.
WPIAL notebook: Golf adds 36-hole format for individual championships
To win a WPIAL golf title next season, players must make the cut and play two good rounds.
WPIAL announces 2022 Hall of Fame class
January 19, 2022
Bob Kalp won more than 400 games as Hempfield’s softball coach, and Chuck Tursky celebrated his 500th career win as Kiski Area’s wrestling coach.
WPIAL board blocks Butler from District 10 football playoffs
The WPIAL two years ago gave Butler permission to play football in District 10 as an “associate member,” but there now is a dispute about whether the Golden Tornado can qualify for that district’s playoffs.
WPIAL reveals updated conference alignments for 2022, 2023 seasons
January 18, 2022
The WPIAL took a multiple-choice approach when it drew up new conferences for the 2022 and ‘23 football seasons.
3 options WPIAL could take with Class 6A football realignment
Tuesday should be a big day for WPIAL football players, coaches and fans.
Trib HSSN WPIAL Girls Basketball Rankings: Week ending Jan. 16, 2022
January 15, 2022
Class 6A
Trib HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 16, 2022
Class 6A
North Allegheny’s Mia Tuman named Pa. Gatorade Volleyball Player of the Year
Whenever the North Allegheny girls volleyball team wins a title, the Tigers have a knack for winning it again and again.
LA Pratt’s game-winner lifts Lincoln Park to 2-point win over Montour
January 14, 2022
Lincoln Park saw a 15-point lead vanish Friday night, but that was all forgotten once senior LA Pratt made a clutch runner with five seconds left to lift the Leopards to a 51-49 victory over Montour in a battle of ranked teams.
Ellwood City hires ‘proven winner’ Dan Bradley to fix struggling football program
Ellwood City hired former OLSH football coach Dan Bradley on Thursday to fix a distressed program that hasn’t won a game in three seasons.
PIAA denies Aliquippa appeal asking to avoid promotion to Class 5A football
January 13, 2022
The PIAA on Thursday denied an initial appeal from Aliquippa, which wants to avoid a pending promotion to Class 5A football next season.
MLK Day basketball showcase moves to Central Pa., still includes 5 WPIAL teams
The MLK Day basketball showcase that recently called Woodland Hills home has shifted about 150 miles east, but this weekend’s event still has some WPIAL teams taking part.
2 WPIAL coaches picked as assistants for Big 33 Football Classic
January 12, 2022
WPIAL football coaches Matt Humbert of Belle Vernon and T.J. Plack of Peters Township will serve as Team Pennsylvania assistants for the Big 33 Football Classic in May.
Daemar Kelly helps Penn Hills ‘learn how to win’ in section victory over Gateway
January 11, 2022
As the final seconds ticked away, coach Chris Giles and the players on the Penn Hills bench all were shouting the exact same words.
Mars school board set to open job of football coach Scott Heinauer
January 10, 2022
Mars appears ready to open the job of longtime football coach Scott Heinauer to applicants.
TribHSSN boys basketball rankings for Jan. 9, 2022
Class 6A
Pitt the ‘best of both worlds’ for North Allegheny’s Timmerson
Jasmine Timmerson noticed her cell phone is a little quieter nowadays without so many calls or texts from college coaches.
North Hills clamps down on defense, stops North Allegheny in clash of 6A contenders
January 7, 2022
Alex Smith knew that if North Allegheny shooter Matt McDonough didn’t cool down, he and his North Hills teammates were in trouble.
Woodland Hills football among WPIAL teams voluntarily playing in higher classification
Football coach Tim Bostard knew folks might be a little surprised to see the PIAA list Woodland Hills as a Class 3A team after years of playing two classifications higher.
Dan Bradley resigns as OLSH football coach after reaching WPIAL finals
January 6, 2022
Weeks after leading Our Lady of the Sacred Heart to the WPIAL finals, Dan Bradley resigned as Chargers football coach after six seasons.
Greg Perry resigns as Keystone Oaks football coach citing pay for assistants
January 5, 2022
Greg Perry resigned as football coach at his alma mater Keystone Oaks, citing a union contract decision that reduced money available for his assistant coaches.
PIAA realignment leaves WPIAL Class 6A football, basketball with fewer teams
January 4, 2022
The WPIAL’s largest classification officially is getting smaller next season in football and basketball.
PIAA competitive-balance rule impacts Aliquippa football unfairly, says Beaver County NAACP
The Beaver County branch of the NAACP added its voice to those opposing a PIAA rule that could force the small-school Aliquippa football team to face even larger opponents in Class 5A next season.
Central Valley’s Sean FitzSimmons named Trib HSSN Football Player of the Year
January 2, 2022
Central Valley faced a fourth-and-1 at its own 18-yard line with less than 5 minutes left in the state championship. The Warriors held a 7-0 lead, so nobody would’ve criticized coach Mark Lyons if he’d decided to punt and play defense.
Trib HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings for Week of Jan. 2, 2022
January 1, 2022
Class 6A
TribHSSN WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 2, 2022
Class 6A
2021 Trib 25 Football Team: WPIAL, state champions highlight HSSN all-stars
December 31, 2021
This was a historic football season for the WPIAL, which had four teams celebrate state titles in Hershey.
Mt. Lebanon tops Class 6A all-state football team as Bob Palko, Alex Tecza win individual awards
December 29, 2021
Mt. Lebanon won its first state title behind a veteran coach, a dynamic offensive trio and toughness at the line of scrimmage.
10 WPIAL players earn all-state in 5A, Penn-Trafford’s John Ruane named top coach
After winning its first WPIAL and PIAA football titles, Penn-Trafford has more reason to celebrate.
WPIAL lands 14 on 4A all-state team; Aliquippa’s Tiqwai Hayes, Mike Warfield earn top honors
If Tiqwai Hayes’ next three seasons are anything like his first, the Aliquippa freshman has an exciting future ahead.
PIAA champion Central Valley places 7 players on Class 3A all-state team, plus coach of the year
December 28, 2021
Central Valley’s 27th straight victory was a 7-0 win over Wyomissing in the PIAA Class 3A football championship game earlier this month. The Warriors’ run of success was certainly recognized by a group of Pennsylvania sportswriters.
Serra Catholic’s Jose Regus honored as Class 2A Coach of the Year in all-state football voting
A rare neurological disorder confined Serra Catholic coach Jose Regus to a wheelchair at times this season, yet Regus remained on the sideline and led the Eagles to a WPIAL football title and a state runner-up finish.
6 WPIAL players recognized on Class A all-state football team
Six WPIAL Class A football players earned all-state honors Tuesday, including Bishop Canevin wide receiver Lesae Lacks, whose team-high 50 catches helped the Crusaders win the district title.
Trib HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings for Week of Dec. 26, 2021
December 25, 2021
Class 6A
Trib HSSN girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 26, 2021
Class 6A
Steve Campos resigns after 1 season as Pine-Richland football coach
December 22, 2021
The Pine-Richland football coaching job is open for the second time in six months.
WPIAL Class 6A football to shrink again as Baldwin, Hempfield, Norwin drop
December 21, 2021
The WPIAL’s largest football classification just keeps getting smaller.
Sewickley Academy draws WPIAL discipline for promotional video highlighting athletics
December 20, 2021
In an attempt to boost middle-school enrollment, Sewickley Academy inadvertently ran afoul of PIAA recruiting rules with a multi-part video highlighting the school’s academics, arts and athletics.
Trib HSSN WPIAL girls basketball rankings for Week of Dec. 19, 2021
December 18, 2021
Class 6A
Trib HSSN WPIAL boys basketball rankings for Week of Dec. 19, 2021
Class 6A
Girls wrestling moving closer and closer to PIAA-sanctioned status
When coach Dan Heckert started a girls wrestling program a year ago at North Allegheny, he hoped someday the sport might become sanctioned by the PIAA and have teams at schools across the WPIAL.
Matt McDonough plays superhero on clutch 3-pointer as North Allegheny tops Pine-Richland in OT
Matt McDonough had a ticket to see the new Spider-Man movie, but his own heroics almost made him late.
Early signing day: Notre Dame, Pitt, Kentucky among Power 5 schools to land WPIAL, City League recruits
December 15, 2021
The excitement of signing day used to be limited to February, but that changed five years ago when the NCAA added an early signing period for Division I football.
Big Seven: Cornell, Rochester lead all-conference team, share top player awards
December 14, 2021
The Big Seven was competitive this fall, with every team winning at least two conference games.
Eastern: Leechburg, Clairton earn top individual awards on all-conference team
Leechburg quarterback Thomas Burke finished fifth among all WPIAL passers this season, earning the senior Offensive Player of the Year honors in the Eastern Conference.
Tri-County South: Top rushers Landan Stevenson, Colin Brady lead all-conference selections
Mapletown’s Landan Stevenson and West Greene’s Colin Brady play for small schools but they put up big numbers.
Allegheny: Steel Valley’s Nijhay Burt leads all-conference team as 2-way standout
Steel Valley’s Nijhay Burt rushed for more than 2,000 yards and scored 35 touchdowns, but Allegheny Conference coaches recognized the senior wasn’t only an offensive star.
LaRoi Johnson resigns as Sto-Rox football coach, athletic director
December 13, 2021
Football coach LaRoi Johnson, who led Sto-Rox to the WPIAL finals twice in his four seasons, said he resigned Monday as coach and athletic director.
Aliquippa has ‘no legitimate complaint’ about competitive-balance rule, says PIAA executive director
December 12, 2021
HERSHEY — The state’s competitive-balance rule is working as originally intended, despite Aliquippa football’s strong objections to playing bigger schools, says the PIAA’s top administrator.
Mt. Lebanon dethrones St. Joseph’s Prep to win 1st state championship
December 11, 2021
HERSHEY – There’s a new champion in PIAA Class 6A football, which surely surprises much of the state.
PIAA Class 6A football championship breakdown: Mt. Lebanon vs. St. Joseph’s Prep
PIAA Class 6A football championship
PIAA Class 3A football championship breakdown: Central Valley vs. Wyomissing
PIAA Class 3A football championship
Mt. Lebanon facing daunting challenge in state’s premier big-school program St. Joseph’s Prep
December 10, 2021
Nobody was too surprised to see St. Joseph’s Prep in Hershey. Mt. Lebanon coach Bob Palko certainly wasn’t.
Southern Columbia routs Serra Catholic, rolls to 5th consecutive PIAA title
HERSHEY — Serra Catholic punched and pulled at the football all afternoon, but the Eagles couldn’t wrestle the state championship from Southern Columbia’s steely grip.
Aliquippa beats odds, wins PIAA Class 4A championship
December 9, 2021
HERSHEY — Aliquippa has a Class A enrollment, yet the small-school Quips were crowned Thursday night as the best 4A football team in the state.
PIAA Class 2A football championship breakdown: Serra Catholic vs. Southern Columbia
PIAA Class 2A football championship
PIAA Class 5A football championship breakdown: Penn-Trafford vs. Imhotep Charter
PIAA Class 5A football championship
PIAA Class 4A football championship breakdown: Aliquippa vs. Bishop McDevitt
PIAA Class 4A championship
Aliquippa’s slimmed-down 300-pounders face heavy workload in state finals
December 8, 2021
At 6-foot-4 and 345 pounds, Aliquippa’s Naquan Crowder fits in nicely on one of the heaviest offensive lines in the state, but a commitment made by the team’s linemen to improve their fitness has him feeling lighter on his feet.
PIAA delays release of updated enrollment numbers to fix vo-tech issue
The PIAA delayed the release of its updated enrollment numbers for the 2022-23 and 2023-24 sports seasons until January after discovering some school districts used inconsistent methods for counting their vo-tech students.
WPIAL schedules hearing to address racial allegations against South Side football team
The WPIAL has scheduled a hearing Dec. 21 to address racial allegations stemming from a football playoff game last month between South Side and Steel Valley.
Midwestern: Laurel’s Luke McCoy, Beaver Falls’ Mekhi Clark top all-conference team
December 6, 2021
Laurel running back Luke McCoy, who ranked among the WPIAL rushing leaders this season, was honored three times by Midwestern coaches in all-conference voting.
Century: 9 Washington players named all-conference, Davoun Fuse voted MVP
Washington’s Davoun Fuse proved himself to be a dual-threat quarterback by passing for 11 touchdowns and running for 14 more, results that earned the junior MVP honors in the Class 2A Century Conference.
Three Rivers: Sto-Rox leads conference honors with 9 players on 1st team
Sto-Rox outscored Three Rivers opponents 201-12 this season, a dominance that saw quarterback Josh Jenkins and running back Jaymar Pearson named Offensive co-MVPs in the Class 2A conference.
Mt. Lebanon coach Bob Palko returns to PIAA football finals with heavy heart
December 5, 2021
The mood at Mansion Park Stadium was jubilant as Mt. Lebanon’s football team won a state semifinal for the first time in school history, yet amid the celebration coach Bob Palko held back tears.
North Allegheny takes on new look with DeGregorio back at the helm
Blue tape forms Xs, boxes and lines on North Allegheny’s basketball court, visual guides put down by boys coach Dave DeGregorio to teach a new offense.
Mt. Lebanon trounces State College, earns 1st trip to Hershey for state football finals
December 4, 2021
ALTOONA — Mt. Lebanon already proved itself as the best team in the WPIAL. Last week they added the title of best team in all of Western Pennsylvania.
Aliquippa scores 27 consecutive points in PIAA semifinal victory over Jersey Shore
December 3, 2021
EBENSBURG — Six minutes saved Aliquippa’s state title hopes.
5 things to watch: How many WPIAL teams will reach PIAA football finals?
Could the WPIAL send five or six teams to Hershey?
Only 14, freshman Tiqwai Hayes shoulders leading role in Aliquippa’s playoff run
When he’s avoiding tacklers and scoring touchdowns at a place like Heinz Field, it’s easy to forget Tiqwai Hayes is only 14 years old.
Central Catholic’s Donovan Hinish stays committed to Notre Dame as coach Brian Kelly exits
December 2, 2021
Central Catholic senior Donovan Hinish had just eaten dinner with a Notre Dame assistant shortly before he heard Fighting Irish coach Brian Kelly was leaving for LSU.
Northwestern Six: Central Valley tops all-conference picks with 13 spots on 1st team
Central Valley earned 13 first-team spots on the Northwestern Six all-conference team with Sean FitzSimmons, Jack Bible and Jayvin Thompson honored on both sides of the football.
Allegheny Seven: North Catholic wins 4 individual awards in all-conference voting
North Catholic’s Kyle Tipinski, Tyler Primrose and Andrew Stephens, who led the Trojans to the WPIAL finals, all earned individual player awards in all-conference voting for the Allegheny Seven.
Interstate: Elizabeth Forward’s Brownfield, Southmoreland’s Govern top all-conference team
December 1, 2021
Elizabeth Forward’s defense allowed only 28 points combined in six conference games, a dominance that led Interstate coaches to name senior DaVontay Brownfield as the conference’s top defensive player.
Big Eight: Belle Vernon’s Devin Whitlock, McKeesport’s Bobbie Boyd lead all-conference team
Thomas Jefferson was dethroned from its familiar spot atop the Big Eight this season, and two of the players most responsible received individual honors in all-conference voting.
Greater Allegheny: Hampton rewarded for conference title with 9 spots on 1st team
Hampton celebrated its first conference title since 2014, an achievement recognized in all-conference voting.
Parkway: Aliquippa leads all-conference voting with 14 players on 1st team
November 30, 2021
Aliquippa outscored Parkway opponents 237-40 this fall, a regular-season dominance that was reflected in voting for the all-conference team.
Big East: Penn-Trafford lands 12 players, coach on all-conference football team
A dozen Penn-Trafford football players earned first-team all-conference honors from a Warriors team that went unbeaten in the Big East and won a WPIAL title Saturday.
Northeast: Dugger brothers among 7 Penn Hills players named all-conference
Penn Hills brothers Julian and Jaden Dugger, a dynamic quarterback-receiver combination for the Indians, each earned first-team all-conference honors in the Class 5A Northeast.
Allegheny Six: Moon’s senior class well represented on all-conference team
Moon’s deep and talented senior class, which led the Tigers to the WPIAL finals for the first time since 1998, was well represented on the Allegheny 6 all-conference team.
Class 6A: Mt. Lebanon leads WPIAL all-conference honors with 9 players, coach
Mt. Lebanon won its first WPIAL title in 21 years, and the undefeated Blue Devils were recognized for their season-long success with nine first-team spots on the all-conference team for Class 6A.
Aliquippa celebrates ‘incredible, shameful’ victory over Belle Vernon in WPIAL Class 4A final
November 27, 2021
Small-school Aliquippa might be short on students, but nobody has more WPIAL football titles than the Quips.
Central Valley seeks 3rd straight WPIAL title, unbeaten North Catholic could spoil plans
When Central Valley takes the field Saturday, this will be the third WPIAL championship appearance in a row for some of the team’s starters.
Serra Catholic forces 9 turnovers, wins for coach in WPIAL Class 2A finals
November 26, 2021
Serra Catholic coach Jose Regus wore a hat at Heinz Field that said “battle,” a brand name of sportswear, but also one word that captures both his determination to coach and his defense’s relentlessness to win.
WPIAL Class 3A football championship breakdown: Central Valley vs. North Catholic
WPIAL Class 3A football championship
Mt. Lebanon’s latest title gives youngest Harvey brother equal bragging rights at Thanksgiving dinner
November 23, 2021
Thanksgiving means family, food and football in the Harvey household, and as the youngest of eight kids, William Harvey grew up hearing stories from the time his oldest brother won a WPIAL title.
PIAA releases sites, times for state football quarterfinal round
November 22, 2021
PIAA football playoffs
5 things we learned: Some WPIAL finalists wait decades for championship chance
Welcome to Heinz Field.
If forced to Class 5A, Aliquippa might consider leaving WPIAL football for independent schedule
November 21, 2021
Forcing the Aliquippa football team to play schools two, three or four times its size isn’t safe or fair, regardless of whether the Quips are winning those games, says the school district’s top administrator.
Alex Tecza’s 4 TDs help lift Mt. Lebanon to 1st WPIAL football title in 21 years
November 20, 2021
Central Catholic had about six weeks to devise a new strategy for stopping Alex Tecza, Eli Heidenreich and Joey Daniels, yet the three seniors and their Mt. Lebanon teammates proved undeniable.
WPIAL 6A football championship breakdown: Mt. Lebanon vs. Central Catholic
WPIAL Class 6A football championship
North Allegheny’s Mlecko steps into PIAA cross country history books as 4-time team champion
There was a time when Maura Mlecko was the freshman on North Allegheny’s cross country team, running at the state championship meet in Hershey for the first time. But like runners on that course, four years can go by fast.
Mt. Lebanon seeks 1st WPIAL title in decades vs. Central Catholic team familiar with finals
On one sideline will be Mt. Lebanon, the undefeated No. 1 seed in the WPIAL playoffs that is making its first championship appearance since 2000.
Moon headed to 1st WPIAL final since 1998 after topping Penn Hills in semis
November 19, 2021
Heinz Field hadn’t been built the last time Moon made the WPIAL football finals, but the Tigers are headed there now.
Seeking 1st WPIAL finals trip since 1998, No. 1 Moon faces Penn Hills in semifinals
A sign hanging inside Moon’s football stadium chronicles the milestone years in team history. One look at that board reminds the current Tigers that their team hasn’t reached the WPIAL finals in more than two decades.
North Allegheny swimming brings back retired coach to replace Patrick Wenzel
November 18, 2021
Citing personal reasons, title-winning North Allegheny swimming coach Patrick Wenzel resigned this fall after leading the WPIAL’s top program for eight years.
WPIAL Sportsmanship Summit to be live streamed Wednesday on TribLive HSSN
November 17, 2021
Athletes from dozens of Western Pennsylvania high schools will gather Wednesday morning at the Heinz History Center for the annual WPIAL Sportsmanship Summit, which will be streamed live on TribLive HSSN.
North Allegheny tops Shaler, earns 5th consecutive trip to state volleyball finals
North Allegheny will try for No. 5.
Hampton girls volleyball rallies past Freeport, reaches PIAA Class 3A final for 1st time
November 16, 2021
Two sets away from a trip to the state volleyball finals, perhaps the Freeport girls showed their age for the first time all season.
WPIAL investigates allegations of ‘racial bigotry, unsportsmanlike play’ by South Side football team
November 15, 2021
The WPIAL is investigating accusations of “racial bigotry and unsportsmanlike play” levied against the South Side football team.
Fox Chapel to host semifinal doubleheader in PIAA girls volleyball tournament
November 14, 2021
Fox Chapel will host a semifinal doubleheader Tuesday night in the girls volleyball state tournament.
PIAA announces sites, times for state soccer semifinals
The WPIAL will have at least seven soccer teams in the state finals, and the league could have a finalist in all eight championship games. The PIAA on Sunday announced sites and times for the state semifinals with seven all-WPIAL matchups among them.
5 things we learned: Big Seven keeps WPIAL Class A unpredictable
The WPIAL’s smallest classification was also its most unpredictable this fall, but Our Lady of the Sacred Heart coach Dan Bradley says he isn’t surprised by who is still standing.
Kiski Area lineman Brandon Lawhorn Moore commits to Miami (Ohio)
November 13, 2021
Kiski Area’s Brandon Lawhorn Moore, one of the WPIAL’s top offensive line recruits, committed Saturday to Miami (Ohio).
WPIAL announces sites for football semifinals
The WPIAL on Saturday revealed host sites for next weekend’s 10 football semifinals.
Thomas Jefferson returns to WPIAL semifinals with dominant win over Hampton
November 12, 2021
Hampton’s offense had posted extraordinary rushing numbers all season, but Thomas Jefferson knows a little about running the football, too.
5 things to watch: Class 6A football teams 1 win away from WPIAL finals
No player on Mt. Lebanon’s football roster was yet born the last time the Blue Devils reached the WPIAL finals.
Hampton hopes to make noise vs. defending WPIAL champ Thomas Jefferson
November 11, 2021
The sound of a train horn punctuates Hampton home games, thanks to an ardent Talbots fan at a nearby home.
Coaches announce 2021 WPIAL field hockey all-stars
November 10, 2021
Days after winning WPIAL titles, the Pine-Richland, Penn-Trafford and Shady Side Academy field hockey teams had another reason to celebrate Wednesday. Combined, the three WPIAL champions had 15 players honored as WPIAL all-stars.
3 WPIAL field hockey champions to host PIAA openers Tuesday
November 7, 2021
No Western Pennsylvania field hockey team has reached the PIAA finals in the sport’s 47-year history, but three WPIAL squads will try as they start their state tournament quest Tuesday.
Sites, times announced for PIAA girls volleyball tournament
The North Allegheny girls volleyball team will begin its quest for a fifth consecutive state title at home Tuesday.
PIAA announces sites, times for state soccer playoff openers
The PIAA revealed sites and times for first-round matchups in the state soccer playoffs and all eight WPIAL champions have home games.
5 things we learned: Home-field advantage didn’t guarantee wins in WPIAL 1st round
November 6, 2021
There are high school football stadiums in Western Pennsylvania where visiting teams rarely win. New Brighton walked into one of those daunting places Friday night and confidently won.
Freshmen runners help North Allegheny boys, girls again sweep WPIAL titles
The starting line at a cross country championship can be a stressful scene for first-timers, yet North Allegheny’s freshmen clearly weren’t fazed.
Long passes let No. 11 Peters Township upset North Hills in WPIAL playoffs
In many ways, Peters Township quarterback Sam Miller epitomizes his football team.
5 things to watch: First-round byes create new twist for WPIAL football playoffs
November 5, 2021
Byes, byes, byes.
North Hills, Peters Township hope to out-perform their seeds in ‘wide open’ 5A
November 4, 2021
The No. 11 is listed next to Peters Township’s name on the WPIAL football brackets, but the Indians sure don’t feel like a double-digit seed.
WPIAL football likely down to 7 teams in 6A as PIAA releases 2022-23 parameters
November 2, 2021
The WPIAL’s largest football classification — 6A — is likely getting smaller again.
WPIAL reveals football playoff brackets, surprises with No. 1 seed in 2A
In the span of a year, Steel Valley went from a one-win season to the No. 1 seed in the WPIAL football playoffs.
Unsung line coach has helped North Allegheny win battles in trenches for 3 decades
Who decided that the running backs and wide receivers are called skill-position players? North Allegheny line coach Mike Buchert strongly disagrees.
2021 WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan predict football playoffs
For the second year in a row, football coaches won’t crowd into a Green Tree ballroom to see the WPIAL playoff brackets announced. Instead, the brackets will be revealed in a video livestream at 6 p.m. Saturday on TribLive HSSN.
Nijhay Burt carries No. 5 Steel Valley past Serra Catholic to clinch Allegheny Conference title
October 29, 2021
WPIAL rushing leader Nijhay Burt was averaging 2 yards a carry on his first 10 tries Friday night, yet nobody this season has frustrated the Steel Valley star for an entire game.
5 things to watch in Week 9: Winner-takes-all matchups in 2 WPIAL conferences
Serra Catholic hasn’t celebrated a conference title since 2007, and the 14 seasons since included some lean years for the Eagles. The team went winless in 2012 and endured one-win seasons in 2013 and ’14.
5 things we learned in Week 8: Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher delivers again in must-win game
October 24, 2021
Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher has delivered many times before in must-win situations, but those often had him holding a basketball in his hands.
Brownsville leaving WPIAL football for independent schedule
Leaving WPIAL football was an idea Brownsville athletic director Scott Roebuck once was adamantly against, but now he agrees that drastic move is the best chance to save the program.
Rare defeat helped North Allegheny girls volleyball players refocus
The winning streak had stood at 57 section victories when the North Allegheny girls volleyball team saw its unbeaten run stunningly end this season.
No. 1 Moon shuts out Bethel Park, clinches Allegheny Six title
October 22, 2021
Moon has a fondness for physical football, clock-consuming drives and 225-pound running backs.
5 things to watch in Week 8: Home field at stake for WPIAL 1st round and quarterfinals
There’s no place like home, especially in the playoffs.
Winless a year ago, Bethel Park challenges Moon for conference title in Allegheny Six
A year after going winless, the Bethel Park football players have a chance this week to call themselves champions of the Allegheny Six.
Allderdice wins rematch with Brashear, returns to City League championship
October 21, 2021
Using Jaerone Parker as a wildcat quarterback was a new wrinkle Allderdice added to its game plan this week while preparing to face Brashear for the second time in eight days.
4 WPIAL coaches earn statewide honor from PIAA
October 20, 2021
Four WPIAL coaches earned state coach of the year honors from the PIAA for the 2020-21 school year.
WPIAL says Plum football used ineligible player, must forfeit game
October 18, 2021
The Plum football team used an ineligible player in some games this season, the WPIAL decided Monday, meaning the Mustangs must forfeit those contests.
Gateway hopes for strong finish after season full of growing pains
October 17, 2021
Gateway football players receive a video scouting report every Sunday from coach Don Holl that starts with an update on the state of the season.
Five things we learned in Week 7: City League star, state’s top junior sidelined for season
October 16, 2021
One of Pennsylvania’s top football players may miss the rest of his junior season with a knee injury.
Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Oct. 16, 2021
Class 6A
Dylan Sleva drives dominant 4th quarter as No. 1 Moon outlasts Upper St. Clair
October 15, 2021
There wasn’t much surprise whenever Dylan Sleva got the football in the fourth quarter, yet Moon kept feeding their 225-pound battering ram.
5 things to watch in Week 7: North Catholic leads WPIAL defenses chasing zeroes
Zero has become North Catholic’s favorite number.
Upper St. Clair revamps offense mid-season, readies ‘wildcat’ for No. 1 Moon
October 14, 2021
An old football adage says if you’re playing two quarterbacks, you actually have none.
PIAA eases preseason practice requirements for most sports, not football
October 13, 2021
The PIAA says it’s OK to skip practice.
Kentucky coach John Calipari visits Imani Christian to see 6-10 freshman phenom
October 12, 2021
Imani Christian is a small school in East Hills, yet Saints basketball coach Khayree Wilson welcomed one of college basketball’s biggest names Tuesday.
WPIAL launches league-wide food drive with competitive twist
October 11, 2021
The WPIAL launched a league-wide food drive Monday that runs until Oct. 23 and since sports teams are involved, it comes with a competitive twist. Participating schools will compete against one another to donate the most meals.
5 things we learned in Week 6 of H.S. football: ‘You can’t control the weather’
October 10, 2021
After rushing for 167 yards and two touchdowns on Friday, Mt. Lebanon running back Alex Tecza didn’t sleep well that night.
Mt. Lebanon shows ‘toughness’ in lightning-delayed win over No. 1 Central Catholic
Mt. Lebanon quarterback Joey Daniels dislocated a finger on his left hand Friday night while catching a trick-play touchdown, but he was back behind center Saturday morning to finish the lightning-delayed game.
Defending PIHL champion North Allegheny plans to enjoy the ride
The lake wasn’t frozen, so the North Allegheny hockey team traded its sticks for oars and competed in the Pittsburgh Dragon Boat Festival at North Park.
Lightning postpones Central Catholic vs. Mt. Lebanon football game to Saturday
October 8, 2021
When Central Catholic visited Mt. Lebanon on Friday night, the game was supposed to be electric, not the weather.
WPIAL recognizes 5 schools with Sportsmanship Award
Six-time winner Hampton was among five schools named Friday as recipients of the WPIAL Sportsmanship Award, joining Derry, Laurel, Moon and Upper St. Clair.
North Hills’ Robert Dickerson commits to Bucknell for both football, baseball
College football coaches want Robert Dickerson as a slot receiver, but the North Hills senior knew he didn’t want to put away his baseball glove and bat for good.
5 things to watch in Week 6: De facto conference champions to be crowned?
October 7, 2021
No, it’s not over ‘til it’s over.
Central Catholic, Mt. Lebanon battle for 1st place in WPIAL Class 6A
Unlike last week, there won’t be any motivational banner hanging over Mt. Lebanon’s locker room entrance.
5 things we learned in Week 5 of H.S. football: Clairton’s 66-game streak is safe
October 2, 2021
The Wyomissing football team might have a thank you gift headed its way with a Clairton postmark on the package. Suddenly, the Bears are huge fans of the high school near Reading.
Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Oct. 3, 2021
Class 6A
North Allegheny girls soccer gets defensive in WPIAL title defense
As two-time reigning WPIAL champions, the girls on North Allegheny’s soccer team are trying to defend their title again this fall, with an added emphasis on the word “defend.”
Devin Whitlock shines but sophomore shares spotlight as Belle Vernon tops Laurel Highlands
October 1, 2021
If this matchup was meant to decide the most-dangerous playmaker in the Big Eight, Devin Whitlock certainly made his case.
5 things to watch in high school football’s Week 5
September 30, 2021
Greensburg Salem, Laurel Highlands and Steel Valley lead a collection of WPIAL football teams enjoying a revival this fall.
WPIAL director joins Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank coalition
September 27, 2021
WPIAL executive director Amy Scheuneman, who is leading a league-wide food drive this fall, was named Monday to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank’s Sports and Media Coalition.
5 things we learned in Week 4 of H.S. football: 16 teams remain unbeaten at midway point
September 26, 2021
Laurel football coach Brian Cooper has the Spartans off to a 5-0 start, likely for the first time since 1977, but the Spartans aren’t slowing down to celebrate.
North Allegheny girls golfers chasing individual, team success
Many of the golfers on North Allegheny’s girls team already have their own swing instructors, so first-year coach Sarah Morrison tries not to tinker much with their mechanics.
Central Catholic tops North Allegheny in rematch of WPIAL Class 6A championship
September 24, 2021
Central Catholic has a new-look offense with ties to an NFL coach, but the Vikings haven’t abandoned what made them two-time defending WPIAL champions.
Central Catholic, North Allegheny meet in rematch of WPIAL Class 6A championship
North Allegheny maybe isn’t the trendy pick in WPIAL championship talk, but the next few weeks could change that discussion.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week 4: Covid cancellations not always ‘no-contest’
September 23, 2021
The WPIAL’s message is clear: Not every covid-related cancellation will be excused as no-contest.
Carlynton football cancellation leads to Serra Catholic vs. Freeport matchup Friday
September 22, 2021
Carlynton canceled its nonconference football game scheduled for Friday against Serra Catholic because of covid-19 cases, but Serra needed little time to find new opponent.
After near-death experience, Bishop Canevin senior writing comeback story on football field
In a helmet and shoulder pads, Eli Wilson looks just like thousands of other high school football players across Western Pennsylvania. But the Bishop Canevin senior has a remarkable life story that started tragically before turning triumphant.
WPIAL sets covid-19 cancellation policy, won’t require vaccinations for officials
September 20, 2021
A regular-season contest canceled because of covid-19 can be declared a “no-contest” rather than a forfeit, but first the WPIAL intends to make sure teams aren’t bending the rules to avoid an opponent.
No longer Penn State-bound, Perry’s Tyreese Fearbry chooses Kentucky
September 19, 2021
Six weeks after decommiting from Penn State, Perry senior Tyreese Fearbry has a new plan for college.
Chartiers Valley cornerback Lamont Payne commits to Penn State
Chartiers Valley junior defensive back Lamont Payne committed to Penn State on Saturday while on campus to watch the Nittany Lions’ win over Auburn.
5 things we learned in Week 3 of H.S. football: Bishop Canevin joins Class A conversation
September 18, 2021
Rebuilding a football program traditionally takes playbooks and practice, but Bishop Canevin coach Rich Johnson added tree pruners and paint brushes to his list.
Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Sept. 19, 2021
Class 6A
Strong freshman class adds to lineup for defending PIAA champion North Allegheny cross country teams
When your boys and girls teams are both defending WPIAL and PIAA cross country champions, what do you do this fall for an encore?
Sto-Rox’s big-play defense steals momentum, finds end zone in win over Avonworth
Jaymar Pearson had already shed his Sto-Rox jersey in the minutes after Friday night’s win, but Avonworth’s coach recognized him even without a No. 7 on his back.
After 11 shutout quarters, Sto-Rox defense draws big test from Avonworth
September 17, 2021
The point totals on Sto-Rox’s side of the scoreboard are often eye-catching, but the numbers next to their opponent have been noteworthy as well this fall.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week 3: Coaches like nonconference tune-ups
September 16, 2021
The sprint to the WPIAL playoffs starts now.
PIAA worried teams using covid-19 issues to avoid unfavorable opponents
September 15, 2021
The PIAA is worried teams may be using covid-19 issues as a way to avoid an unfavorable opponent, so the board on Wednesday debated at length a policy that would’ve made regular season cancellations forfeits.
PIAA board approves vaccine mandate for officials, doesn’t foresee shortage
The PIAA does not expect its covid-19 vaccination mandate to cause a shortage of game officials since the new policy applies only to inter-district state tournament games.
PIAA requires covid-19 vaccination for all officials working state playoffs
September 14, 2021
The PIAA will require its game officials in all sports to be fully vaccinated against covid-19 to work any state postseason contests this fall.
Nearly forced to move with NFL free agent father, Tyree Alualu excelling as North Allegheny linebacker
September 12, 2021
North Allegheny linebacker Tyree Alualu is already making an impact as a first-year starter in the middle of the Tigers defense, but the sophomore standout nearly spent this fall playing football for another high school, likely in Florida.
5 things we learned in Week 2 of H.S. football
September 11, 2021
Time inevitably erases memories from blowout games with lopsided scores, regardless of whether you’re on the winning or losing side.
Trib HSSN high school football rankings: Sept. 12, 2021
Class 6A
Central Valley’s Landon Alexander gets birthday wish, defeats rival Aliquippa
Landon Alexander wished for a win on his 18th birthday.
Aliquippa, Central Valley anticipate electric atmosphere as rivalry renews
September 10, 2021
The cement stands may be weathered, the grass field might be bumpy and the vintage light towers have rust, but few WPIAL football venues can match the atmosphere of a big crowd at historic Aschman Stadium in Aliquippa.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week 2: Handmade schedule a hit
September 9, 2021
Man or machine?
Basketball standout Debaba Tshiebwe eligible after transfer to Central Catholic, WPIAL decides
September 8, 2021
Central Catholic transfer Debaba Tshiebwe, a basketball standout who arrived this summer from a private school in Ohio, is fully eligible for the regular season and playoffs this winter.
Ellwood City, OLSH cancel Week 2 football games
September 7, 2021
Ellwood City and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart each canceled their scheduled football games this week because of covid-related issues.
What we learned in Week 1 of H.S. football
More than two dozen WPIAL football teams are off to 2-0 starts, but the most exciting could belong to Shaler Area.
Underclassmen to play key roles for North Allegheny boys soccer
With few returning starters and a roster heavy in sophomores, North Allegheny coach Bobby Vosmaer told his boys soccer team to be ready.
Senior quarterback steps up, leads Thomas Jefferson past Gateway in battle of top-ranked teams
September 3, 2021
Quarterback was considered a big question mark for Thomas Jefferson, so coach Bill Cherpak intended to give a couple of players snaps there.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week 1: Teams roll with covid cancellations
September 2, 2021
If high school football teams were hoping covid shutdowns were left behind in 2020, this week shows they’re not gone yet.
Westinghouse football game canceled because of covid case
Friday’s scheduled football game between Westinghouse and Kirtland (Ohio) will not be played because of a covid case within the City League school’s program.
Central Valley, Blackhawk left without Week 1 games after opponents cancel
September 1, 2021
In a dilemma reminiscent of last fall, Central Valley has started searching for a new opponent for Friday night’s football game.
Bishop Sycamore under scrutiny after facing Sto-Rox, IMG Academy on same weekend
August 30, 2021
Sto-Rox and Bishop Sycamore both wore black uniforms for their football game Friday at the Wolvarena, but the matching outfits weren’t the most unusual part of the weekend for the online school from Columbus, Ohio.
5 things we learned in Week Zero of H.S. football
Rather than a double-double, two-sport star Rodney Gallagher recorded a double-triple.
Big-play defense leads Sto-Rox past Bishop Sycamore at Wolvarena
Sto-Rox’s high-scoring offense will have big nights this season, there’s little doubt about that.
Philly power Imhotep Charter wears down Central Catholic with oversized offensive line
Two tight ends, a huge offensive line and a gritty running back gaining chucks of yardage at a time. This certainly was the style of offense Central Catholic usually would relish.
Central Catholic draws Philadelphia power Imhotep Charter in cross-state Week Zero clash
August 27, 2021
Finding a willing Week Zero opponent nearby isn’t always easy for Central Catholic, the two-time defending WPIAL Class 6A champion.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the biggest coaching moves for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the kickers
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top kickers and punters for the 2021 season.
5 things to watch in WPIAL football Week Zero: On opening night, teams have options
August 26, 2021
“Week Zero” is back.
WPIAL football teams welcome return to traditional ‘Friday night lights’ atmosphere
In any other year, there might have been huge crowds at Sarge Alberts Stadium to witness one of the most dominant seasons in WPIAL football history.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the safeties
August 25, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top safeties for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the cornerbacks
August 24, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top cornerbacks for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the linebackers
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top linebackers for the 2021 season.
2021 WPIAL Class 5A football breakdown: Pine-Richland saga headlines offseason of change
The defending champion has a new coach. The preseason favorite has a new quarterback. The runner-up from last season has a whole lot of new faces.
WPIAL football finals to be played over 2 days at Heinz Field
August 23, 2021
For the first time, the WPIAL football championships will be a two-day event at Heinz Field this fall.
Aliquippa keeps punching above its weight … and winning
Because Aliquippa reached the WPIAL Class 4A finals last fall, coach Mike Warfield worries that achievement will overshadow one harsh reality.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the defensive line
August 22, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top defensive linemen for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the offensive line
August 21, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top offensive linemen for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the tight ends
August 20, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top tight ends for the 2021 season.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the wide receivers
August 19, 2021
TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top wide receivers for the 2021 season.
After offseason upheaval, Pine-Richland has something to prove
Pine-Richland is a defending WPIAL and PIAA champion, but the Rams aren’t focused on last year. At this point, that undefeated season seems long ago.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs
August 18, 2021
Starting this week, TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top running backs for the 2021 season.
Gateway gladly wears bull’s-eye in WPIAL Class 5A
On paper, Gateway certainly has the look of a WPIAL contender.
2021 HSSN football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks
August 17, 2021
Starting today, TribLive HSSN will break down the top players at one position per day until Week Zero. Here’s a look at the top quarterbacks for the 2021 season.
Like rivals, Upper St. Clair turns to new nucleus
Upper St. Clair’s conference was among the WPIAL’s deepest in recent years with senior-heavy rosters full of experience becoming the norm in the South Hills.
Peters Township seniors hungry for bigger roles
When Peters Township snaps the football on opening night, returning center Anthony Brunette will be the lineman over the ball.
After state championship blockbuster, Central Valley working on encore
August 14, 2021
The big question facing Central Valley this fall is: How do you top last season?
U.S.-Canada border policy impacts Week Zero schedule for Upper St. Clair, Greensburg Central Catholic
August 13, 2021
In any other year, facing an international opponent would bring some excitement to Week Zero of football season.
Culture change takes root under Bob Palko at Mt. Lebanon
Editor’s note: Starting today, Trib HSSN will preview at least one WPIAL conference per day until the start of high school football season Aug. 27.
North Allegheny flying under Class 6A radar
Editor’s note: Starting today, Trib HSSN will preview at least one WPIAL conference per day until the start of high school football season Aug. 27.
Chartiers Valley’s Marian Turnbull commits to Northeastern
August 10, 2021
The record-setting Chartiers Valley girls team now has five rising seniors all committed to play basketball in college with three headed to Division I schools.
Mike Tomlin refutes report saying Steelers receiver James Washington wants traded
August 7, 2021
Despite a report saying James Washington was unhappy with his role and wanted to be traded, Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said he hasn’t heard those words from the fourth-year receiver.
North Allegheny AD Bozzuto pitches regular season baseball tournaments in PIAA board debut
High school baseball players can play dozens and dozens of AAU games each summer, at times more than one per day and often multiple days in a row.
Rick Meister, championship-winning softball coach at North Allegheny, dies
Former North Allegheny softball coach Rick Meister, who led the Tigers to both WPIAL and PIAA gold, has died. He was 73.
Mt. Lebanon’s Eli Heidenreich follows family tradition, commits to Navy
August 6, 2021
Eli Heidenreich’s college choice involved more than deciding where he’d spend the next four or five years of his life. The Mt. Lebanon senior, whose grandfather and uncle both served in the Navy, followed a similar path and committed this week to play football for the Naval Academy.
WPIAL requests eligibility hearings for New Castle, Bishop Canevin transfers
August 4, 2021
The WPIAL will schedule an eligibility hearing for New Castle transfer DaJaun Young, a double-digit scorer for Kennedy Catholic’s boys basketball team last winter.
North Allegheny catcher Aaron Posey commits to Division I Kennesaw State
July 31, 2021
As a catcher named Posey who wears No. 28, North Allegheny’s Aaron Posey sometimes jokes that he’s related to a National League MVP.
With camps, college visits back, TribLive HSSN Preseason All-Stars are busy this summer
July 22, 2021
As Josh Jenkins walked into Kennywood Park, passing the merry-go-round and the Sky Rocket, the Sto-Rox quarterback marveled at just how much life has improved in a year.
WPIAL adds board of directors seat exclusively for private schools
July 19, 2021
Private schools in the WPIAL soon will have their own seat on the board.
WPIAL football championships will return to Heinz Field this fall — maybe over 2 days
The WPIAL football championships are returning to Heinz Field this fall, maybe for a two-day affair Thanksgiving weekend at the North Shore stadium.
State champion wrestler, City League great Godwin Nyama Cutler dies at 27
July 18, 2021
Former state wrestling champion Godwin Nyama Cutler, an all-time City League great who won the league its first PIAA title less than a decade ago, has died. He was 27.
Miller, Meister headline North Allegheny Hall of Fame class
July 16, 2021
Championship-winning coaches Heidi Miller and Rick Meister were among 18 inductees chosen to enter the North Allegheny Hall of Fame this year.
PIAA makes change to state basketball tournament, anticipates ‘normal’ fall
July 14, 2021
The state basketball tournament will start a little earlier this winter under a schedule change that makes cross-state travel easier for the semifinals and finals.
Trib HSSN boys athlete of the year: Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer wins titles in 2 sports
July 12, 2021
Early in the winter, Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer called his future college wrestling coach with some bad news. He’d injured his left shoulder and would eventually need surgery to repair a torn labrum.
A year like no other: The top stories of the 2020-21 school year in WPIAL sports
July 10, 2021
8.21.20
Record-setting quarterback Johnny DiNapoli leaving East Allegheny
July 9, 2021
Johnny DiNapoli, who set a WPIAL passing record two years ago, has transferred this summer from East Allegheny to Elizabeth Forward.
Seton LaSalle baseball standout, coach’s son Brett Wagner transferring to IMG Academy
July 8, 2021
Seton LaSalle baseball coach Mike Wagner is losing his favorite player to IMG Academy in Florida, but he’s 100% on board with the kid’s decision.
North Allegheny’s Cole Young picked for all-star baseball game at Coors Field
North Allegheny shortstop Cole Young, who could be a future MLB Draft pick, is headed to the site of this year’s baseball all-star game.
Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star Team: Sean FitzSimmons
July 4, 2021
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Trib HSSN Head of the Class: Baseball Player and Coach of the Year for each classification
July 3, 2021
Whether their school had students in the classroom or virtually this spring, there is a special seat up front reserved for these standout performers and coaches in the return to the baseball field.
Kathy McConnell-Miller leaves Trinity bench for college basketball job
July 2, 2021
Kathy McConnell-Miller is returning to the college coaching ranks after two seasons with the Trinity girls basketball team.
Central Valley’s Mark Lyons nominated for NFL high school coach of the year
Central Valley’s Mark Lyons was among 32 nominees announced Thursday for the Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year award.
2021 Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year: Eric Chalus, Bethel Park
2021 HSSN Baseball Player of the Year
Week Zero football showcase returns to Wolvarena in August
July 1, 2021
Week Zero is back on the football schedule this fall, and with it returns the Western Pa. vs. Everyone football showcase hosted by Woodland Hills.
Butler basketball’s Devin Carney commits to Elon
One of college basketball’s stingiest defenses added some scoring power Thursday when Butler’s Devin Carney committed to Elon.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Patrick Body, Gateway
June 28, 2021
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Moon lineman Trent Fraley commits to Marshall
June 27, 2021
Moon’s Trent Fraley, the son of a former NFL lineman, announced his commitment Sunday to Marshall.
WPIAL, PIAA champions among 2021 TribLive HSSN Baseball All-Stars
Among the six teams crowned WPIAL baseball champions this spring, their individual stories varied greatly.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Brad Birch, Gateway
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
TribHSSN Preseason WPIAL Football All-Star team: Landon Alexander, Central Valley
June 26, 2021
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 22 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
North Allegheny baseball appreciates contribution of seniors, looks to bright future
June 25, 2021
North Allegheny’s Cole Young shared hugs and handshakes with teammates near the first base dugout at Penn State’s baseball field, season-ending thank yous to the seniors whose high school careers were ending there.
La Salle College starter shuts down North Allegheny in Class 6A finals
June 18, 2021
Sometimes, it’s not a pitcher’s fastball velocity that makes him unhittable. La Salle College starter Ryan Marler proved that true Friday night.
Shenango’s rally falls 1 run short in PIAA Class 2A championship
UNIVERSITY PARK – At 67, Shenango coach Larry Kelly was four years younger than his state championship counterpart in the other dugout Friday.
Facing 1-year suspension, Seton LaSalle football coach Mauro Monz resigns
June 17, 2021
Suspended football coach Mauro Monz, facing a one-year ban from the WPIAL over recruiting allegations, said he’s resigning at Seton LaSalle rather than continue to appeal.
Clutch pitching carries Bethel Park past star-studded Red Land to PIAA baseball title
UNIVERSITY PARK — Red Land has a future MLB first-rounder batting leadoff and some ex-Little League World Series stars behind him. So, Bethel Park staked its title hopes on an old adage that good pitching beats good hitting.
Slow start dooms Eden Christian baseball in 1st PIAA finals appearance
UNIVERSITY PARK — As a first-time state finalist, Eden Christian will remember Thursday’s game for years to come, even if they’d like to forget the first two innings.
Future 1st-round MLB Draft pick awaits Bethel Park in PIAA final vs. Red Land
June 16, 2021
At around 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Bethel Park pitcher Eric Chalus will take the mound for the PIAA Class 5A championship at Penn State’s Medlar Field and face Red Land’s leadoff hitter.
Seneca Valley adds former Pine-Richland football assistants Lehmeier, Sasson
Assistant football coaches Tim Sasson and Ryan Lehmeier were left searching for new jobs when their time together at Pine-Richland abruptly ended. So, they offered themselves as a packaged deal to any school needing an offensive line coach and an offensive coordinator.
Butler tight end Charlie Kreinbucher commits to Akron
June 15, 2021
The Butler football program has struggled in recent years, but the Golden Tornado has a Division I talent in rising senior Charlie Kreinbucher.
WPIAL upholds suspensions of Seton LaSalle football coaches
June 14, 2021
The WPIAL heard additional evidence about Seton LaSalle’s suspended football coaches during a lengthy hearing Monday but ultimately reached the same decision.
Anthony Miller’s 12 Ks lead New Castle to 1st appearance in state baseball finals
Maybe the big-game atmosphere had Anthony Miller feeling ready, seeing hundreds of New Castle fans filter into Neshannock’s baseball field. Maybe it was the fact his Red Hurricanes were one win away from the state finals.
Where is Eden Christian? Baseball team puts school on map with PIAA playoff run
June 13, 2021
In his 15 years as a teacher, administrator and now baseball coach at the school, Steve Good is often asked: Where is Eden Christian?
PIAA reveals sites, times for state baseball semifinals
June 11, 2021
The WPIAL is guaranteed to have at least two teams in the state baseball finals and could have as many as five.
Semifinal sites, times announced for PIAA softball playoffs
The PIAA softball semifinals will feature a pair of WPIAL championship rematches Monday at Mars.
Montour shuts out Cathedral Prep, earns semifinal rematch against New Castle
June 10, 2021
Before Montour pitcher Dylan Mathiesen took the mound for the 12th time this season, his coaches wondered if the right-hander might be tiring a little. His previous outing came in the WPIAL finals, and Mathiesen’s stuff that day maybe wasn’t his sharpest.
On the clock: PIAA will discuss basketball shot clock in months ahead
June 9, 2021
Will Pennsylvania high school basketball have a shot clock in 2022?
Penn State will allow full capacity for PIAA baseball, softball championships
Penn State will allow full capacity at its baseball and softball stadiums for the upcoming PIAA championships, alleviating worries the softball finals might need to be moved.
WPIAL approves 3 Seton LaSalle transfers, Jackson Pons’ return to Norwin
June 8, 2021
Mauro Monz’s status as Seton LaSalle coach remains in doubt, but the WPIAL ruled his son eligible to play football for the Rebels this fall.
Softball playoff sites, times set for PIAA quarterfinals
Norwin will host an all-WPIAL doubleheader Thursday in the state softball quarterfinals.
PIAA reveals quarterfinal sites, times for state baseball playoffs
PIAA baseball quarterfinalists learned Tuesday where they’re playing next.
Serra Catholic naming court after longtime girls basketball coach Bill Cleary
June 4, 2021
Serra Catholic is naming its basketball court after longtime girls coach Bill Cleary, the school announced Friday.
Central Catholic defensive tackle Donovan Hinish commits to Notre Dame
Notre Dame bought billboard space around Pittsburgh this spring, touting the many Western Pennsylvania football players who’ve joined the Fighting Irish in recent years.
Sites, times announced for PIAA 1st-round softball playoff games
The six WPIAL softball champions will start their state tournament runs at Norwin, Peterswood Park or North Allegheny next week.
PIAA reveals 1st-round sites, times for state baseball playoffs
The PIAA on Friday released sites and times for next week’s first-round games in the state baseball playoffs.
New Pine-Richland football coach predicts ‘smooth transition’ after meeting players
There were some sleepless nights this week for Steve Campos as Pine-Richland was about to make him the school’s new football coach. But after meeting with the players for the first time Thursday afternoon, Campos predicted he’d sleep soundly later that night.
Woodland Hills athletic director Ron Coursey leaving WPIAL for Chambersburg job
June 3, 2021
Woodland Hills athletic director Ron Coursey has always wanted to chat with the PIAA leadership about its transfer rule. He’ll soon be working almost in their backyard, once he becomes athletic director at Chambersburg, so maybe he’ll knock on their door.
New Castle’s Rocco Bernadina mows down Montour in WPIAL Class 4A championship
June 2, 2021
New Castle owns the most boys basketball titles in WPIAL history, and the football team ranks third on the league’s all-time championships list.
PIAA rules Gateway QB Brad Birch eligible, returns Seton LaSalle appeal to WPIAL
The PIAA overturned one WPIAL decision and told the WPIAL board to reconsider another.
North Allegheny ace shuts down Hempfield, leads Tigers to record 8th WPIAL title
June 1, 2021
Hempfield got an early look at right-hander Kyle Demi a few weekends ago, but that sneak peek at the North Allegheny ace didn’t help much Tuesday night.
Seneca Valley assistant could be Pine-Richland’s next coach, source says
Steve Campos, an assistant football coach at Seneca Valley, is expected to be the recommended candidate to fill the vacant head coach job at Pine-Richland, according to a source.
South Fayette’s Amy Allen claims 4 PIAA medals, wins gold with 400-meter relay
May 29, 2021
SHIPPENSBURG — When Amy Allen qualified for states as a sophomore, she ran one event and went home.
Plum’s Parker medals in shot put at PIAA championships
SHIPPENSBURG — Plum thrower Logan Parker returned Saturday to Seth Grove Stadium and felt right at home.
West Mifflin’s Dontae Lewis celebrates 300 hurdles title on future college track
SHIPPENSBURG — While his competitors endured the cold rain and wind inside Seth Grove Stadium, West Mifflin hurdler Dontae Lewis found a way to escape.
Beaver’s Emma Pavelek earns PIAA high jump silver wearing borrowed shoes
SHIPPENSBURG — Emma Pavelek didn’t walk a mile in someone else’s shoes but she did high jump in someone else’s sneakers.
Quaker Valley’s Nora Johns wins state gold in 1st year running 300 hurdles
SHIPPENSBURG — Nora Johns ran the 300 hurdles for the first time this spring, and the Quaker Valley sophomore can remember the thoughts running through her head at the time.
Gallon thrives in cleanup role for North Allegheny
Batting cleanup comes with added responsibility in any baseball lineup, but there’s a little extra burden for North Allegheny’s No. 4 hitter.
North Catholic sprinter Trevor Paschall wins 1st PIAA gold in 200, silver in 400
SHIPPENSBURG — Trevor Paschall’s state championship meet wasn’t going quite how he’d imagined.
Waynesburg’s Taylor Shriver clears 13 feet, wins long-awaited PIAA pole vault title
SHIPPENSBURG — Waynesburg pole vaulter Taylor Shriver needed three tries to clear her first bar at the state championships, an 11-foot jump that’s normally routine for the senior.
Thoughts of hospitalized teammate carry Aliquippa relay team to 5th-place finish
May 28, 2021
SHIPPENSBURG — He should have been here, said the four sprinters on Aliquippa’s relay team, whose thoughts were with their fifth teammate, hospitalized in Pittsburgh.
Shady Side Academy’s Melissa Riggins joins elite list with 6 PIAA gold medals
SHIPPENSBURG — Matching the speed she showed circling the track, the public address announcer at Seth Grove Stadium declared Melissa Riggins a three-time state champion in the 1,600 meters as soon as she crossed the finish line.
Patience pays off in PIAA gold for Deer Lakes runner Carson McCoy
SHIPPENSBURG — In hindsight, Carson McCoy decided he probably made his move too early at the WPIAL championship, ultimately finishing second.
Aliquippa to compete at state track meet with teammate, critically injured in shooting, in thoughts
May 27, 2021
Aliquippa’s track team arrived Thursday in Shippensburg, a day ahead of the state championships, but the Quips made the trip with one fewer sprinter than they’d hoped.
PIAA might seek alternate site for softball championships at Penn State
May 26, 2021
The state softball championships are scheduled for next month at Penn State, but there’s a chance the PIAA will need to find an alternate site.
WPIAL reveals championship schedule for baseball finals
The WPIAL baseball finalists in Class 6A and 4A will play under the lights at Wild Things Park next week.
Bethel Park’s walk-off win caps fierce pitchers’ duel with West Allegheny
May 25, 2021
Bethel Park’s Zack Sackett stood in the first-base dugout at Matulevic Field and watched two of the WPIAL’s gutsiest pitchers duel for 41 outs Tuesday without allowing a run.
North Allegheny returns to WPIAL finals after 10-run win over Butler
North Allegheny’s Joe Manesiotis surely was a little surprised when Butler intentionally walked the batter ahead of him to load the bases.
Montour celebrates 1-run win over Quaker Valley in WPIAL 4A quarterfinals
May 24, 2021
With two runners on, no outs and trailing by a run, Montour’s Mason Sike was told to be ready to lay down a bunt.
Rain alters WPIAL baseball, softball playoff schedules Monday
Rain forced the WPIAL to revamp Monday’s playoff schedules for baseball and softball, moving some games to new sites and postponing others to Tuesday.
‘Revitalized’ Gary Goga hired as Keystone Oaks boys basketball coach
Boys basketball coach Gary Goga, who built Peters Township into a WPIAL championship program in his 15 seasons there, is ready for another challenge.
‘It was meant to be,’ says new Woodland Hills boys basketball coach Eugene Wilson
A few weeks after its coach resigned midseason, the Woodland Hills boys basketball team made a trip to Ringgold for a nonsection game this past winter.
Quick corrections lead North Allegheny’s Taylor to WPIAL triple jump title
May 22, 2021
There’s plenty about junior Dwayne Taylor that impresses North Allegheny’s track and field coaches: He’s 6-foot-5 with long limbs and the speed of a sprinter.
Sophomore’s clutch hit carries Bethel Park past Shaler into Class 5A baseball semifinals
May 21, 2021
Some might consider Bethel Park sophomore John Chalus the little brother of a Division I baseball recruit, but he certainly wasn’t overshadowed Friday.
‘Perfect timing’ leads Dave DeGregorio back to North Allegheny as boys basketball coach
May 20, 2021
When Dave DeGregorio resigned at North Allegheny five years ago to coach his sons, a part of him thought he might return someday, if the timing was right.
Fantastic 400 finish between Hampton’s Galuska, Butler’s Brown headlines WPIAL Class AAA meet
May 19, 2021
Hampton sprinter Gage Galuska threw his body forward at the finish line, tumbled into a somersault and stayed on the track waiting for his 400-meter time to show on the scoreboard.
WPIAL track and field championships: What to know for Wednesday’s meet
The WPIAL endured a season without track and field last spring, but the championships are back. Individual champions in Class AAA and AA will be crowned Wednesday at Slippery Rock University.
After adding 2-game series to regular season, what’s next for WPIAL baseball?
May 17, 2021
The WPIAL baseball committee’s philosophy is simple: The best team should win section titles and league championships, not the team with one incredibly dominant pitcher.
Mask policies for spectators will vary at WPIAL postseason events
Spectators will be asked to wear masks Wednesday at the WPIAL track and field championships at Slippery Rock University despite the recent change to the statewide mandate.
North Allegheny ready to rehire Dave DeGregorio as boys basketball coach
May 15, 2021
North Allegheny’s next boys basketball coach already knows the program well.
North Allegheny girls pleased with runner-up finish at WPIAL team championships
Only a handful of schools reach the WPIAL team track championships each year, but the meet has become almost an annual tradition for the North Allegheny girls.
WPIAL reveals brackets for 2021 baseball playoffs
After enduring a year with no baseball, the WPIAL playoffs are back.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan take an early look at baseball playoff pairings
The real brackets for the 2021 WPIAL baseball playoff will be revealed at 3 p.m. Friday on TribLive HSSN.
Butler boys, girls dominate at WPIAL Class AAA team finals
May 12, 2021
As Butler runner C.J. Singleton neared the finish line, the junior wondered how close his nearest 800-meter challenger was, so he took a quick glance behind him.
WPIAL reveals updated postseason plans for spring sports playoffs
May 10, 2021
If covid-related cancellations leave section standings unsettled, the WPIAL will have its steering committees determine which teams make the playoffs this spring.
A year after high jumping at home, Beaver’s Emma Pavelek worried another season was doomed
May 9, 2021
Emma Pavelek had never been to a chiropractor before this past week and was skeptical one could help her painful foot. She’d been diagnosed with a sprain but after five weeks, her injury wasn’t getting any better.
Shady Side’s Melissa Riggins wins twice at Baldwin Invite despite facing ‘worst wind’
May 8, 2021
The weather app on Melissa Riggins’ smartphone misled her a little.
WPIAL softball rankings | May 8, 2021
Class 6A
WPIAL baseball rankings | May 8, 2021
Class 6A
North Allegheny’s Akindele among WPIAL’s top sprinters
When North Allegheny sprinter Lola Akindele broke the 60-second barrier in the 400 meters, she was elated.
North Journal notebook: North Allegheny’s Morningstar named Gatorade Player of the Year
North Allegheny senior Paige Morningstar was named the state’s Gatorade Volleyball Player of the Year after leading the Tigers to a fourth consecutive PIAA title last fall.
West Mifflin senior, PIAA favorite Dontae Lewis sweeps hurdles at Baldwin Invitational
May 7, 2021
Some hurdlers have tunnel vision on the track, focused solely on their lane and uninterested in their competitors.
North Allegheny’s Paige Morningstar named state’s Gatorade Volleyball Player of the Year
May 6, 2021
Six years after her sister won the award, North Allegheny senior Paige Morningstar was named the state’s Gatorade Pa. Volleyball Player of the Year.
WPIAL has big decisions to make this week about baseball, softball playoffs
May 4, 2021
Will higher-seeded baseball and softball teams host playoff games this spring or could the WPIAL use neutral sites as usual?
WPIAL rules 1 Birch brother eligible, other brother ineligible after hearing
May 3, 2021
The WPIAL handed Gateway transfers Brett and Brad Birch a good-news, bad-news scenario.
Ousted coach Eric Kasperowicz apologizes to Pine-Richland administrators in letter
In a letter asking to be rehired, ousted football coach Eric Kasperowicz apologized to Pine-Richland’s school board and administration for his “attitude and behavior” during a contentious late-March interview.
WPIAL sees 2 players make Class 6A boys basketball all-state team
May 1, 2021
Butler’s Devin Carney and Fox Chapel’s Eli Yofan earned all-state honors Saturday when the Pa. Sports Writers All-State Team for Class 6A boys basketball was announced.
WPIAL softball rankings | May 1, 2021
Class 6A
WPIAL baseball rankings | May 1, 2021
Class 6A
North Hills’ Robert Dickerson has aspirations of football/baseball career in college
As a two-sport star who hits home runs and scores touchdowns, North Hills’ Robert Dickerson hears the occasional Kyler Murray reference. Older generations go to Deion Sanders or Bo Jackson as their football-baseball icon.
4 WPIAL boys basketball players make Class 5A all-state team
April 30, 2021
Chartiers Valley senior Brayden Reynolds and Laurel Highlands sophomore Rodney Gallagher earned first-team honors when the Pa. Sports Writers All-State Team for Class 5A boys basketball was announced Friday.
Before becoming NFL Draft star, Kyle Pitts clashed with WPIAL champion in Hershey
April 29, 2021
If tight end Kyle Pitts is the first non-quarterback selected Thursday night in the NFL Draft, Gateway football coach Don Holl won’t be surprised.
4 WPIAL boys basketball players earn all-state honors in Class 4A
Lincoln Park senior Dakari Bradford and North Catholic senior Andrew Ammerman, whose teams clashed last month in the WPIAL finals, were among four WPIAL boys basketball players earning all-state honors Thursday in Class 4A.
Washington softball forfeits remaining games, hopes for better seasons ahead
Washington hopes to build up its softball program in years to come, athletic director Mike Bosnic said Thursday, but this spring’s season will end after only one game.
Serra Catholic hires Matt Bacco as girls basketball coach
Serra Catholic has a new girls basketball coach for the first time in years.
State’s all-time winningest boys basketball coach earns all-state honor in 3A
April 28, 2021
Weeks after winning a boys basketball state title, Loyalsock also dominated the all-state team for PIAA Class 3A.
Undefeated OLSH tops Class 2A boys basketball all-state team
April 27, 2021
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart’s perfect season just keeps getting a little better.
6 WPIAL players chosen for Class A all-state boys basketball team
April 26, 2021
Six weeks after Bishop Canevin’s Dom Elliot and Kevaughn Price shared a championship court with Rochester’s Devon Hemer and JD Azulay, the four WPIAL Class A finalists are together again.
Lizzy Groetsch, Aislin Malcolm among 20 WPIAL girls basketball players named all-state
North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch and Chartiers Valley’s Aislin Malcolm each added another statewide honor to their resumes.
All-state boys basketball teams revealed this week starting with non-PIAA schools
April 25, 2021
The all-state boys basketball teams will be announced over a seven-day span starting today with players from non-PIAA member schools. In years past, all-state organizers added those athletes to the PIAA classification teams but split them into their own group this winter.
WPIAL Baseball Rankings: April 24, 2021
Class 6A
North Journal notebook: North Allegheny doubles team claims section title
After winning a section singles title earlier this month, North Allegheny’s Chase Davidson doubled his medal haul April 21 when he teamed up with Shomik Telang to win a Section 2-AAA doubles crown.
Seton LaSalle appeals football coaches’ suspensions to PIAA
April 23, 2021
Seton LaSalle has appealed to the PIAA to overturn discipline handed down by the WPIAL for recruiting violations.
Pine-Richland cites ‘pattern of hazing, intimidation’ in letter firing coach Eric Kasperowicz
April 22, 2021
Ousted football coach Eric Kasperowicz “expressed minimal concern for hazing or empathy for the students” during a 2½-hour interview with Pine-Richland administrators in late-March, according to a letter the school district sent him cutting ties.
Neil Walker hopes Pine-Richland avoids ‘huge black eye’ from football coach controversy
April 21, 2021
Retiring pro baseball player Neil Walker, one of Pine-Richland’s most famous alums, hopes the controversial ouster of the school’s football coach doesn’t become “a huge black eye” for the community.
North Allegheny tops Mt. Lebanon, celebrates back-to-back Penguins Cup titles
April 20, 2021
North Allegheny goalie Josh Bailey didn’t mince words Monday night. The second period, when he was peppered with 20 shots and the puck stayed trapped inside NA’s blue line, was bad.
WPIAL grants eligibility to pair of football players
April 19, 2021
The WPIAL granted eligibility to Central Catholic’s Jayden Thrift and McKeesport’s Jake Miller, two football players who switched schools this winter.
Fired football coach Eric Kasperowicz reaches out to Pine-Richland to ‘come to a resolution’
With students, parents and community members demanding Pine-Richland rehire Eric Kasperowicz, the ousted football coach has asked school administrators to meet with him and “come to a resolution quickly.”
Urged not to apply at Pine-Richland, coaches statewide pledge support for ousted coach Eric Kasperowicz
April 18, 2021
Dozens of high school football coaches statewide have used social media to announce their support for coach Eric Kasperowicz and his assistants, who were fired at Pine-Richland on Wednesday.
Trib HSSN Baseball Rankings: April 17, 2021
Class 6A
Ousted coach Eric Kasperowicz reapplies to lead Pine-Richland football team
April 16, 2021
Pine-Richland already has at least one applicant to coach the football team next fall, and it’s someone who knows the program very well.
Cowboys QB Ben DiNucci supports Eric Kasperowicz after coach’s surprise firing at Pine-Richland
Ben DiNucci lives 1,200 miles from Pine-Richland but was stunned when word reached him in Texas that his high school football coach had been fired.
Football coach Eric Kasperowicz: ‘No bullying or hazing took place’ at Pine-Richland
April 15, 2021
A day after being fired, former Pine-Richland football coach Eric Kasperowicz pushed back against any allegation of hazing or bullying in his program, while his assistants described a toxic relationship with the school’s administration.
WPIAL awards $1,000 scholarships to 20 scholar-athletes, cancels luncheon
The WPIAL/James Collins Scholar-Athlete Program luncheon was canceled again this spring because of the pandemic, but the $1,000 scholarships will be awarded as planned.
Pine-Richland fires football coach Eric Kasperowicz 5 months after winning state title
April 14, 2021
In the span of eight years, Pine-Richland football coach Eric Kasperowicz built the Rams into one of the WPIAL’s best programs with four WPIAL championships and two state titles.
WPIAL approves spring championship sites, adopts split schedule for individual track meet
The WPIAL individual track and field championships will be run midweek this spring and have a split schedule, with Class 2A starting first and 3A later in the day.
WPIAL rules Birch brothers ineligible after transfer from Jeannette to Gateway
Two high-profile transfers now are in limbo.
Butler’s Devin Carney adds scholarship offer from Duquesne basketball
April 13, 2021
If Butler’s Devin Carney wants to stay home for college, he now has another Division I option.
Pitt, Penn State offer Chartiers Valley’s Lamont Payne after pressure-packed sophomore year
April 12, 2021
On one side of the field, Chartiers Valley had a senior three-year starter at cornerback. On the other side was sophomore Lamont Payne.
WPIAL to finalize spring championship sites, plans return to familiar venues
The WPIAL will finalize its championship sites for spring sports when the board meets Wednesday.
PIAA basketball committee wants state semifinals on weekend, not weekday
April 11, 2021
The state basketball tournament might begin a few days earlier next winter, if the PIAA basketball committee gets its wish.
North Allegheny’s talented lineup, rotation aims to ‘prove something’
In a way, pitcher Kyle Demi personifies North Allegheny’s mindset this season. He’s a big right-hander with a fastball that can reach 90 mph, but most folks around the WPIAL haven’t seen him throw it.
Trib HSSN baseball rankings for April 10, 2021
Class 6A
PIAA won’t offer opinion on transgender legislation before reading proposal
April 9, 2021
The PIAA won’t offer an opinion on proposed legislation barring transgender athletes from girls sports before reading the bill, executive director Bob Lombardi said.
Moon’s Mia Cochran named state’s top girls cross country runner by Gatorade
April 8, 2021
Moon’s Mia Cochran was named as the state’s Gatorade Cross Country Player of the Year on Thursday, making her only the second WPIAL runner to win the award.
PIAA cuts state track championships to 1-day meets but won’t reduce qualifiers
April 7, 2021
The PIAA track and field championships are being condensed to one-day meets this spring, but they’ll include the same number of qualifiers as usual.
OLSH’s DiMichele, Spadafora named Trib HSSN Boys Basketball Players of the Year
April 6, 2021
Jake DiMichele and Dante Spadafora were the perfect combination this winter, but the Our Lady of the Sacred Heart basketball teammates weren’t always fast friends.
Large, diverse list of candidates seeks WPIAL board of directors seat
April 5, 2021
This year’s ballot for electing new WPIAL board members has the largest and most diverse list of candidates in recent memory, executive director Amy Scheuneman said.
Big 33 Football Classic down to 13 WPIAL players for May all-star game
April 4, 2021
The Big 33 Football Classic is down to 13 WPIAL athletes for this year’s game after a sixth player withdrew.
2021 Trib 10 Boys Basketball All-Stars
This year’s Trib 10 boys basketball all-star team could look a lot like next year’s team.
2021 Trib 10 Girls Basketball All-Stars
This year’s Trib 10 girls basketball all-star team has an impressive collection of medals.
Seton LaSalle coaches Mauro Monz, Jason Pinkston suspended 1 year by WPIAL
March 31, 2021
Seton LaSalle football coach Mauro Monz and assistant Jason Pinkston are suspended from coaching any PIAA-affiliated team for one year, the WPIAL announced Wednesday.
Seton LaSalle football coaches face possible suspension following WPIAL hearing
March 30, 2021
Administrators from four school districts raised recruiting allegations Tuesday against Seton LaSalle’s football coaches during a lengthy closed-door hearing with the WPIAL, a situation unprecedented in recent memory, WPIAL executive director Amy Scheuneman said.
Chartiers Valley held to 27 points in PIAA championship loss to Cardinal O’Hara
March 27, 2021
HERSHEY — On film, Cardinal O’Hara looked big, strong and physical to Chartiers Valley coach Tim McConnell, so his Colts weren’t surprised by what they ran into at Giant Center.
PIAA Class 5A girls basketball championship breakdown: Chartiers Valley vs. Cardinal O’Hara
PIAA Class 5A girls basketball championship
North Allegheny girls celebrate 1st PIAA title, top Spring-Ford in state finals
March 26, 2021
HERSHEY — North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch and Paige Morningstar were together at Giant Center four years ago when the Tigers last reached the state finals, and they talked then about someday winning a title.
OLSH joins elite list as undefeated PIAA boys basketball champion
HERSHEY — For Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, this was the perfect ending.
Mohawk basketball seniors find ‘closure’ despite PIAA championship loss
March 25, 2021
HERSHEY — The PIAA eliminated its on-court medal ceremonies this winter, so Mohawk basketball coach Mike O’Lare awarded them in the team’s makeshift locker room.
Neshannock girls fall in PIAA basketball finals, plan return trip to Hershey
HERSHEY — Neshannock’s first visit to the state finals ended with silver medals and a runner-up trophy, but before the Lancers left Giant Center, they were already making plans for a return trip.
Constitution will play OLSH in state finals after negative covid tests
HERSHEY — The Our Lady of the Sacred Heart boys basketball team will have an opponent for the state championships.
PIAA favors full playoff brackets for spring sports ‘if possible’
March 24, 2021
If the PIAA gets its wish, spring sports will have full state playoff brackets this season rather than the smaller champions-only format used in the fall and winter.
Short-handed Upper St. Clair falls in state semifinals to Reading
March 23, 2021
ALTOONA — There was no short-handed win for Upper St. Clair this time, no sequel to the team’s six-man celebration from a few days ago.
WPIAL to investigate recruiting allegations against Seton LaSalle football
The WPIAL has scheduled a hearing to address recruiting allegations raised by other schools against Seton LaSalle’s football coaching staff.
Foul trouble dooms Lincoln Park in PIAA semifinal loss to Hickory
March 22, 2021
Twenty-eight times Lincoln Park was whistled for a foul Monday night, yet it wasn’t so much how they fouled but rather who.
Short-handed Upper St. Clair wins PIAA quarterfinal with 6 players, volunteer coach
March 20, 2021
Screenwriters might not turn the “Upper St. Clair Six” into a movie, but their improbable story has every element for a covid-era drama about high school basketball.
New Castle loses late lead, falls to Cathedral Prep in overtime
March 19, 2021
For New Castle, the fourth quarter ticked away too slowly and overtime went by too fast.
Winning basketball titles runs in Lincoln Park freshman Brandin Cummings’ family
Comparisons to older brother Nelly are harder to shake than any lockdown defender, and Lincoln Park freshman Brandin Cummings just added another item in common.
Dan DeRose makes ‘tough decision,’ resigns as North Allegheny boys basketball coach
March 17, 2021
Calling it “a very tough decision,” Dan DeRose resigned Wednesday night after one season as boys basketball coach at North Allegheny.
Covid-19 concerns won’t keep Upper St. Clair boys out of PIAA basketball playoffs
Upper St. Clair’s boys basketball team has at least six healthy players, so the Panthers will compete Saturday in the PIAA playoffs as scheduled.
Lincoln Park tops North Catholic, avenges last season’s WPIAL championship loss
March 15, 2021
Dakari Bradford never forgot the emotions he saw in Lincoln Park’s locker room last winter, especially the sadness from the seniors playing their final WPIAL championship.
Upper St. Clair boys basketball quarantines after covid case, state playoffs in question
Three days after winning a WPIAL title, Upper St. Clair’s boys basketball season could be in jeopardy.
WPIAL notebook: League won’t face financial loss from winter sports
The WPIAL lost around $28,000 by holding its swimming championships with no spectators, but the league expects to break even once all winter sport revenues are counted.
WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship breakdown: North Catholic vs. Lincoln Park
March 14, 2021
WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball championship
New Castle tops Chartiers Valley for record 14th WPIAL basketball title
March 13, 2021
New Castle’s Sheldon Cox wasn’t the senior who had everyone’s attention entering Saturday night. But by the time Cox threw down two dunks in the final seconds, all eyes were on him and his record-setting Red Hurricanes.
WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship breakdown: Chartiers Valley vs. New Castle
WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball championship
Upper St. Clair tops Pine-Richland, celebrates 1st WPIAL title since ’05
March 12, 2021
There were moments when Danny Holzer could’ve worried in the fourth quarter, probably should’ve been worried, but Upper St. Clair’s longtime coach insists he wasn’t.
WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball championship breakdown: Upper St. Clair vs. Pine-Richland
WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball championship
WPIAL Class A boys basketball championship breakdown: Bishop Canevin vs. Rochester
WPIAL Class A boys basketball championship
Lincoln Park bests Midland’s streak with 6th consecutive WPIAL finals appearance
March 11, 2021
Blue and gold banners hang in Lincoln Park’s gym to celebrate the great Midland teams from past decades but the new-era Leopards just one-upped their old-school counterparts.
New Castle tops Laurel Highlands, reaches 7th WPIAL finals in 10 years
March 10, 2021
Six times in the past decade already, New Castle had reached the WPIAL finals behind a frenzied press defense that’s become a hallmark of the program.
Allderdice boys excluded from City League basketball finals but season isn’t over
The City League boys basketball championship will move forward without Allderdice but the team’s season isn’t over.
Upper St. Clair finally solves Butler, earns 1st WPIAL finals appearance since ’05
March 9, 2021
Upper St. Clair lost twice to Butler in last year’s basketball playoffs, heart-wrenching losses that senior Luke Banbury recalls a little differently than his USC teammates.
Owen DeGregorio makes 7 3-pointers as North Catholic returns to WPIAL semifinals
March 8, 2021
North Catholic’s Owen DeGregorio took advantage of Monday’s mild weather to put up some shots with his dad on their outdoor hoop.
4 WPIAL players withdraw from Big 33 Football Classic
March 7, 2021
Four WPIAL football players picked for the Big 33 Football Classic won’t take part because of college obligations, organizers for the high school all-star game announced.
Mars scores 24 consecutive points in WPIAL 5A quarterfinal win over Trinity
March 6, 2021
Zac Schlegel and his Mars teammates were reluctant to see the second quarter clock reach zeroes Saturday.
North Allegheny, Peters Township will host WPIAL basketball championships
North Allegheny and Peters Township, two of the area’s larger high school gyms, are expected to host all 12 WPIAL basketball championship games.
Union confusion leads Imani Christian basketball team on ride to wrong school
Sixty miles separate the Union Area High School near New Castle from Union High School in Rimersburg, but the districts with matching names continue to cause trouble for bus drivers.
Devin Carney’s buzzer-beating 3 lifts Butler past Penn-Trafford in OT
March 5, 2021
Ten times Butler’s Devin Carney had taken a shot from behind the arc Friday night and nine of them had missed. In fact, a potential winner at the end of regulation bounced hard off the rim.
After exploring college options, WPIAL to keep basketball finals in high school gyms
With gathering limits increased statewide, the WPIAL looked into renting a college venue for its basketball championships, but decided to use high school gyms as originally planned.
Ellwood City earns validation, upsets Avonworth in WPIAL Class 3A playoffs
There was nothing invalid about Monday’s playoff win, a 52-point preliminary-round victory that officially ended Ellwood City’s decade-long postseason drought.
PIAA says spring athletes can shed masks outdoors, if physical distancing possible
March 3, 2021
Spring sports athletes and coaches can shed their masks when outdoors, as long as they maintain 6 feet of physical distance, according to new PIAA guidelines for covid-19.
Seneca Valley tops Mt. Lebanon without its coach, earns 1st playoff win since ’13
March 2, 2021
With about 30 seconds until half, Mt. Lebanon decided to hold for the final shot, but Seneca Valley wasn’t in a wait-and-see mood.
WPIAL basketball playoffs to see increase in fans, possibly larger venue for finals
March 1, 2021
There will be more fans in the stands at WPIAL basketball playoff games this week after Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration Monday raised gathering limits on indoor events.
Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings: Feb. 28, 2021
February 28, 2021
Final regular-season rankings
Trib HSSN girls basketball rankings: Feb. 28, 2021
Final regular-season rankings
Opponents try, and fail, to knock North Allegheny top scorer off his game
February 27, 2021
North Allegheny’s Connor Chi occasionally gets cross-checked behind the play or hit a little late by an opponent trying to intimidate him on the ice.
Upper St. Clair tops Chartiers Valley in battle of No. 1 overall seeds
February 26, 2021
This would’ve been a scrimmage most years, tucked between the WPIAL pairings meeting and the playoff openers, but Upper St. Clair and Chartiers Valley played Friday night with purpose.
WPIAL cancels 2 preliminary-round playoff basketball games
February 25, 2021
The WPIAL on Thursday cancelled two playoff basketball games after the Ambridge girls and Propel Braddock Hills boys withdrew from the postseason.
WPIAL takes no action against Mt. Lebanon basketball coach for objecting to official
Mt. Lebanon boys basketball coach Joe David testified in a WPIAL hearing Thursday that he was uncomfortable with one of the officials assigned to his game last week, but insisted he never threatened to take his team and leave.
Breaking down the 2021 WPIAL boys basketball playoffs
February 23, 2021
Here is a breakdown of the 2020-21 WPIAL boys basketball playoffs:
In seeding basketball brackets, WPIAL asks: What have you done lately?
When it came time to seed the basketball playoff brackets, the WPIAL asked: What have you done lately?
Controversial finish sees Butler defeat North Allegheny, avenge 2 earlier losses
North Allegheny ran undefeated through its boys basketball section twice, but this winter’s quirky schedule included a third time through, much to NA’s dismay.
WPIAL: Gyms must have capacity of 700 or greater to host basketball playoff games
February 22, 2021
Some top seeds in the WPIAL basketball playoffs could find themselves playing on their opponent’s home floor this winter.
Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings: Feb. 21, 2021
Class 6A
North Allegheny seniors earn redemption with WPIBL championship
A couple of pins cost North Allegheny’s boys bowling team a title two seasons ago, so the Tigers made certain this year’s championship match wasn’t as close.
Rodney Gallagher’s winner lifts Laurel Highlands over Thomas Jefferson
February 19, 2021
Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher already has accomplished more than most sophomores, but the Mustangs star added two more firsts to his list.
25 basketball teams won’t participate in WPIAL’s open postseason tournament
February 18, 2021
Derry’s girls basketball team earned its way into the WPIAL playoffs last winter, but the one-win Trojans won’t go back this year.
Big 33 Football Classic goes ‘full-speed ahead,’ announces roster with 19 WPIAL players
The weather will be perfect for the Big 33 Football Classic, predicts Garry Cathell, executive director of the Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association.
Schools must certify mask exemptions in writing before PIAA playoffs, not WPIALs
February 17, 2021
High school athletes must wear a mask during PIAA postseason competition unless their school certifies in writing that they qualify for a medical exemption.
Lincoln Park tops Quaker Valley in battle for section lead, will rematch Thursday
February 16, 2021
Brandin Cummings gave Lincoln Park the lead with a gutsy 3-pointer in the closing minutes, made two clutch free throws in the final seconds and led his team in scoring for the third game in a row.
Obama Academy boys basketball halts activities after positive covid-19 test
The Obama Academy boys basketball team must shut down activities for 14 days after a player tested positive for covid-19, Pittsburgh Public Schools announced Tuesday.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan take early look at boys basketball tournament
February 15, 2021
The WPIAL basketball playoffs will seem bigger than ever this winter since the league intends to hold an open tournament in each of the six classifications.
PIAA might require schools to certify mask-wearing exemptions in writing
With many high school sports teams competing maskless, the PIAA may require postseason participants to certify in writing that their athletes qualify for an exemption under the state mandate.
An early fall? PIAA planning committee opposes starting football season sooner
February 14, 2021
The PIAA doesn’t have a prognosticating groundhog, but after hearing from its strategic planning committee, it doesn’t look like fall sports will arrive any earlier next school year.
WPIAL bracketology: Don Rebel, Chris Harlan take early look at girls basketball tournament
The WPIAL basketball playoffs will seem bigger than ever this winter since the league intends to hold an open tournament in each of the six classifications.
Trib HSSN boys basketball rankings: Feb. 14, 2021
Class 6A
Aspiring photographer, North Hills swimmer Josh Bogniard seeks picture-perfect WPIALs
When North Hills senior swimmer Josh Bogniard isn’t in the water, he’s often taking photographs of some. Icy waterfalls, mossy streams and a duckweed covered pond appear on the aspiring photographer’s Instagram account.
Brayden Reynolds scores 42; No. 2 Chartiers Valley tops No. 1 New Castle
February 12, 2021
Chartiers Valley’s Brayden Reynolds says his Colts weren’t themselves last month when they hosted New Castle and maybe focused too much on the hype.
Central Catholic lineman Bralen Henderson ‘grinds’ path to Ohio commitment
February 10, 2021
In a normal recruiting year, Bralen Henderson would’ve visited with the dozens of college football coaches who arrive at Central Catholic looking for future players.
Allderdice tops Obama Academy in rematch of City League championship
After going weeks without shooting a basketball, City League scorers will need time to find their touch, predicted Allderdice boys coach Devin Crummie.
WPIAL football players among 30,000 cardboard cutouts in Super Bowl seats
February 7, 2021
WPIAL football fans might recognize some familiar faces in the Super Bowl crowd at Raymond James Stadium.
‘Sigh of relief’ as City League basketball teams ready for delayed season openers
Snow days are sometimes enjoyable but not when you’re a high school basketball player who has waited weeks for a game, and then winter weather extends that wait a few days longer.
New Castle no longer unbeaten, loses to Belle Vernon in semifinal rematch
February 6, 2021
Belle Vernon point guard Devin Whitlock is short in height, quick with the basketball and confident against a trapping defense.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 7, 2021
Class 6A
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 6, 2021
Class 6A
Football officials organize free online clinic to recruit more colleagues
February 4, 2021
If someone’s on the fence about becoming a high school football official, there’s an online clinic Saturday designed just for them.
Blackhawk transfer Lorenzo Jenkins ineligible for playoffs after WPIAL hearing
The WPIAL denied a postseason waiver request from Blackhawk transfer Lorenzo Jenkins, leaving him ineligible for the basketball playoffs this winter and for football playoffs next fall.
WPIAL will use high school venues for basketball, swimming championships
The WPIAL plans to use high school venues this winter for its basketball and swimming championships rather than Pitt’s facilities.
Western Pa.’s top 10 football prospects for the Class of 2022
February 3, 2021
The WPIAL and Pittsburgh City League saw almost a dozen football recruits from their 2021 class sign with Power 5 schools this winter. The ‘22 class will need some help in the coming months to match that number.
Sto-Rox scores 20 consecutive 2nd-half points in section win over Carlynton
February 2, 2021
The halftime clock had almost reached zeroes before Sto-Rox emerged from the boys basketball locker room. Coach Dwight Hines later laughed at the suggestion he was in there delivering the best motivational speech of his life.
Opt-in window opens for basketball teams wanting to enter WPIAL playoffs
February 1, 2021
The WPIAL wants to know: Is your basketball team in or out?
WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 31, 2021
Class 6A
North Allegheny’s Khalil Dinkins works to add snarl to his game
As a future Penn State football player, there’s no questioning Khalil Dinkins’ athleticism. But his basketball coach has told him there’s one flaw in his game: He’s too nice.
No. 3 Montour builds 15-point lead, hangs on for victory over Central Valley
January 29, 2021
Isayah Mosley and his Montour teammates held their breath in the final seconds of a 40-38 victory Friday night as host Central Valley missed at the buzzer.
Young North Catholic lineup wins battle of WPIAL champions over Mohawk
Ava Walker and Alayna Rocco are freshmen starters for North Catholic’s girls basketball team, and teammates Dacia Lewandowski and Tori Drevna are only sophomores.
PIAA moves state swimming, diving championships to high school venue
January 28, 2021
The state swimming championships are changing lanes.
PIAA might keep football championships in November, start season earlier
January 27, 2021
Should the state football championship remain in November, even if that requires an earlier start date or smaller playoffs?
Khalil Dinkins’ double-double helps North Allegheny top North Hills in overtime
January 26, 2021
As a future Penn State football player, there’s no questioning Khalil Dinkins’ athleticism. But his basketball coach has told him there’s one flaw in his game: He’s too nice.
WPIAL denies postseason eligibility for Chartiers Valley girls basketball player
January 25, 2021
The Chartiers Valley girls will be missing one of their top players when the WPIAL basketball playoffs arrive this winter.
Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame delays induction ceremony until 2022
January 24, 2021
The Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame has delayed its next induction ceremony until 2022.
Big 33 Football Classic’s Super Bowl streak extended for another year
The Big 33 Football Classic was canceled last spring but the game’s Super Bowl streak continues.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 23, 2021
Class 6A
Chartiers Valley’s state-record winning streak snapped at 64 games
The streak is over.
North Allegheny swimmers continue to ‘shoot for excellence’
Swimmers aren’t yet sure how many of them will qualify for the WPIAL championship meet but that’s just the latest twist in what’s been a challenging winter.
OLSH avenges last season’s only loss with mercy rule win over Aliquippa
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart waited more than a year for this chance to avenge its only loss from last season.
New Castle backs up No. 1 ranking with victory over No. 2 Chartiers Valley
January 19, 2021
New Castle joined a larger classification this winter but the results seem much the same.
Moon basketball’s Reilly Sunday commits to Duquesne
Moon point guard Reilly Sunday, who’s sidelined this basketball season with a knee injury, committed Tuesday to Duquesne.
63! Chartiers Valley girls break state basketball win streak record
January 18, 2021
Silver balloons hung in Chartiers Valley’s locker room after Monday’s girls basketball game, with some spelling out “yay!” and others “63.”
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 16, 2021
Class 6A
Now healthy, Habib steps into new role for North Allegheny
Greg Habib’s junior season ended early last winter when a player fell into his leg at Seneca Valley’s gym, forced his knee inward and injured his medial collateral ligament.
Chartiers Valley girls quietly tie longest winning streak in state basketball history
There were a couple of high fives when the clock reached zeroes Friday night but nothing more than usual as Chartiers Valley wrapped up a 53-point section win over Moon.
Facing 1-game suspension, Woodland Hills boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic resigns
January 15, 2021
Facing a one-game suspension handed down by his school district, Woodland Hills boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic resigned instead.
Norwin investigates on-court incident between basketball coach, opposing player
January 14, 2021
The WPIAL won’t seek to discipline Norwin’s boys basketball coach for an on-court incident with a player since the school district has already addressed the issue.
Woodland Hills suspends boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic 1 game for social media post
Woodland Hills suspended boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic for one game in response to a social media post last week that criticized game officials.
WPIAL ‘publicly censures’ Woodland Hills basketball coach Matt Furjanic for tweet
January 13, 2021
Woodland Hills boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic tweets mostly about presidential politics to his 436 Twitter followers, but the WPIAL found one of his other posts more controversial.
Blistering 32-point quarter carries new-look North Allegheny past Seneca Valley
North Allegheny’s boys basketball team hasn’t reached triple digits in the past five seasons, which isn’t all that surprising since scoring 100 points is rare in the WPIAL.
Pittsburgh City League winter sports will start Jan. 25
January 11, 2021
City League sports teams can begin their winter seasons Jan. 25, two days before Pittsburgh Public Schools students are expected to resume in-person classes.
Damned if you do: Woodland Hills coach, WPIAL board to chat about Tweet
Woodland Hills boys basketball coach Matt Furjanic has a no cursing policy and violators run sprints at practice. Now, Furjanic might be the one running, although he disputes whether the word he uttered should count.
WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 10, 2021
Class 6A
Deep roster to play key role for North Hills boys basketball
North Hills boys basketball coach Buzz Gabos has plans for the 10th, 11th and maybe even 12th player on the team’s bench.
Lincoln Park caps unofficial tip-off tournament with win over Central Catholic
L.A. Pratt’s calf was cramping but he had a wide-open hoop ahead of him, so he waved off the timeout and finished a one-legged layup.
Mt. Lebanon’s strong 3rd quarter spoils Jeff Ackermann’s Baldwin debut
January 9, 2021
After practicing just four times since late November, Mt. Lebanon coach Joe David could only wonder what his basketball team might look like this season.
Return policy: Answering the big questions as WPIAL teams get back on the court
January 7, 2021
Worried? Skeptical? Angry?
Uniontown leaving WPIAL football for independent schedule
January 6, 2021
Uniontown is leaving WPIAL football for an independent schedule, a decision school administrators hope can spark a struggling program.
Gov. Wolf: Shutdown of high school sports will end Monday
December 30, 2020
After a three-week pause of interscholastic sports, it’s time to push “play.”
PIAA, WPIAL delay team wrestling championships
December 22, 2020
The PIAA remains committed to crowning team wrestling champions this winter, but for now it doesn’t know when or where.
PIAA relaxes preseason practice rule, anticipates restarting sports Jan. 4
Help has arrived for high school teams that fell behind schedule on their preseason practices.
5 Central Valley teammates voted all-state; Ameer Dudley named top player in 3A
Undefeated Central Valley was unmatched this season, a dominance that was rewarded in all-state voting Tuesday.
Beaver Falls trio leads 7 WPIAL players on Class 2A all-state football team
A month after winning a WPIAL football title, Beaver Falls teammates Josh Hough, Mitchell Myers and Tyler Jones have reason to celebrate again.
Jeannette’s Birch brothers among 7 WPIAL players named all-state in Class A
Jeannette brothers Brett and Brad Birch, who combined to lead the Jayhawks to a WPIAL title, are together again.
WPIAL adopts ‘open tournament’ for basketball playoffs allowing all teams to participate
December 21, 2020
WPIAL basketball teams can forget about playoff scenarios this winter.
Subsection wrestling tournaments among ideas WPIAL board to consider
December 20, 2020
The WPIAL wrestling committee wants subsection tournaments added to the individual postseason schedule this winter as the league adjusts to covid-19 restrictions.
PIAA will consider relaxing 15-practice requirement for winter sports teams
December 18, 2020
Will the PIAA let athletes skip practice? Some coaches hope so.
North Catholic sweeps MVP awards on Allegheny 7 all-conference football team
December 17, 2020
Conference champion North Catholic was rewarded with nine first-team spots on the all-Allegheny Seven football team, and three Trojans earned individual awards in a vote of coaches.
WPIAL finalists Jeannette, Clairton lead all-Eastern Conference football team
WPIAL Class A finalists Jeannette and Clairton combined to earn 19 first-team spots on the all-Eastern Conference football team in a vote of coaches.
WPIAL’s 2021 football recruits make commitments official by signing early
December 16, 2020
For the fourth year, the NCAA allowed college football recruits to sign early, making their commitments official in mid December rather than early February.
WPIAL champion coach brings spark to North Allegheny boys basketball
December 13, 2020
Matt McDonough and Robby Jones knew there would be some wide eyes in the gym, so they offered words of advice to their North Allegheny teammates about new basketball coach Dan DeRose.
WPIAL teams in action Friday night savor the moment, worry about what’s next
December 12, 2020
In all of his years as the Mars boys basketball coach, Rob Carmody has never celebrated an undefeated season.
PIAA doesn’t anticipate ‘pause’ becoming lengthy shutdown
December 11, 2020
PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi said he doesn’t believe this “pause” of interscholastic sports will drag on for months like the shutdown last spring.
Gov. Wolf shuts down interscholastic, recreational sports until Jan. 4
December 10, 2020
With covid-19 cases increasing statewide, Gov. Tom Wolf “paused” interscholastic and recreational sports Thursday, one day before high school teams were scheduled to start their winter schedules.
PIAA moves forward with winter sports despite pleas from school administrators
December 9, 2020
The PIAA will let winter sports start Friday as scheduled over pleas from school administrators asking to delay as covid-19 cases rise.
Trib HSSN 2020-21 WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball preseason breakdown
December 8, 2020
This will surely be a boys basketball season like no other.
Trib HSSN 2020-21 WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball preseason breakdown
December 7, 2020
This will surely be a boys basketball season like no other.
School districts’ masks policies could impact WPIAL competitions
“Mask or no mask” has become a WPIAL dilemma.
Undefeated state champions lead Trib 25 football all-stars
December 6, 2020
Two WPIAL teams went unbeaten from start to finish, remarkable seasons that included lopsided wins, running clocks and record-setting stats.
North Allegheny looking to again contend for PIHL Penguins Cup title
December 5, 2020
The PIHL shut down its playoffs before reaching the finals last season, so North Allegheny coach Mike Bagnato told his players to consider themselves the reigning champions.
Shenango, Rochester top all-conference selections for Big 7 football team
December 4, 2020
Shenango and Rochester tied atop the Big Seven standings and had five players apiece earn first-team all-conference honors in the WPIAL Class A conference.
California leads Tri-County South with 9 all-conference football players
California running back Jaeden Zuzak, the WPIAL’s third-leading rusher this season, was among 45 players named all-conference in the Class A Tri-County South.
10 Apollo-Ridge players earn 1st-team honors in Allegheny Conference
Apollo-Ridge running back Logan Harmon and lineman Greg Klingensmith were among 10 Vikings who earned first-team all-conference honors in the Class 2A Allegheny.
Beaver Falls’ Josh Hough, Laurel’s Mitch Miles earn top conference honors in MAC
WPIAL champion Beaver Falls earned seven first-team spots on the Midwestern all-conference team led by senior Josh Hough, who was named offensive player of the year.
McGuffey quarterback, lineman, coach earn all-conference awards in Century
McGuffey quarterback Rocco Falosk and lineman Aiden Brookman each earned individual conference honors after leading the Highlanders to the Century title.
Sto-Rox, Western Beaver lead Three Rivers all-conference football team
December 3, 2020
Sto-Rox and Western Beaver, which tied atop the Class 2A Three Rivers standings, led the all-conference voting with six first-team players.
Pittsburgh Public Schools postpones City League winter sports until January
Pittsburgh Public Schools has delayed the start of winter sports in the City League until at least January.
Elizabeth Forward leads Interstate all-conference vote with 8 first-team picks
Elizabeth Forward celebrated the second undefeated regular season in school history, an achievement that was rewarded in the all-conference voting.
Central Valley sweeps individual awards on Northwestern 6 all-conference team
December 2, 2020
Much like during the season, Central Valley again stood atop the Northwestern Six, this time in the all-conference voting.
Chartiers Valley basketball’s Aislin Malcolm commits to Pitt
Chartiers Valley junior Aislin Malcolm already has two wins on her future home court.
Beaver Falls football rallies around trainer touched by coronavirus tragedy
As an athletic trainer for high school sports teams, Dan Summers made it his responsibility to keep Beaver Falls football players safe from coronavirus. Hand sanitizer was taped to the back of his golf cart, and he used a water sprayer to cool athletes from a safe distance during practice.
7 players named all-conference for both offense, defense on Big 8 football team
December 1, 2020
Belle Vernon’s Devin Whitlock and McKeesport’s Colin Lyons were among seven players who earned first-team all-conference honors on both sides of the football in the Class 4A Big Eight.
Aliquippa, Chartiers Valley lead all-conference football team in Parkway
Aliquippa’s Vernon Redd and Chartiers Valley’s Anthony Collura earned all-conference honors on both sides of the football in the Class 4A Parkway.
Plum earns 10 all-conference picks after undefeated record in Greater Allegheny
Plum celebrated its first undefeated regular season since 1977, an accomplishment that was rewarded in the all-conference voting by Greater Allegheny coaches.
PIAA savors fall season completed against all odds
November 30, 2020
There was cause to celebrate, but PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi probably didn’t spike the football or exchange high-fives after the state championships finished Saturday night.
Penn-Trafford leads all-conference picks on Big East football team
Penn-Trafford quarterback Ethan Carr was among 10 teammates who earned first-team all-conference honors, and Warriors coach John Ruane earned Coach of the Year honors in the Class 5A Big East this season.
Central Catholic leads WPIAL Class 6A all-conference football team
WPIAL champion Central Catholic had eight players earn first-team all-conference honors in Class 6A, including running back Eddy Tillman, who led the largest classification in rushing.
Pine-Richland earns 12 all-conference spots on Northeast football team
A dozen Pine-Richland players earned first-team all-conference honors in the Class 5A Northeast, including the record-setting combination of quarterback Cole Spencer and receiver Eli Jochem.
Peters Township tops Allegheny 6 all-conference football team
Peters Township reached the WPIAL finals for the second year in a row and was rewarded with eight first-team spots on the Allegheny Six all-conference team.
Thomas Jefferson defends title, captures 5th PIAA football championship
November 28, 2020
HERSHEY — Style points aren’t important to Thomas Jefferson’s football team, or else the Jaguars coaching staff wouldn’t be wearing shorts in 40-degree weather.
PIAA Class 4A championship breakdown: Thomas Jefferson vs. Jersey Shore
Thomas Jefferson vs. Jersey Shore
Pine-Richland routs Cathedral Prep to claim PIAA Class 5A title
November 27, 2020
HERSHEY — Luke Miller was a Pine-Richland waterboy four years ago when the Rams last celebrated a state football championship at Hersheypark Stadium.
Central Valley caps undefeated season with PIAA Class 3A championship
HERSHEY — The second-half clock usually moves lightning quick for Central Valley games, but this time the Warriors insisted it felt excruciatingly slow.
5 things to watch at the PIAA football championships
With a laugh, Cathedral Prep coach Mike Mischler brags that his defense hasn’t given up a point in weeks.
PIAA Class 5A football championship breakdown: Pine-Richland vs. Cathedral Prep
November 26, 2020
Pine-Richland vs. Cathedral Prep
PIAA championship ‘final chapter’ for record-setting Pine-Richland seniors
Cole Spencer has won more games than any quarterback in Pine-Richland history, and Eli Jochem owns all-time receiving records for catches and yards.
Few tickets. No locker rooms. Covid-19 alters football team plans for PIAA championships
November 25, 2020
Central Valley’s football players will eat Thanksgiving dinner at the school, enjoying food served only by their coaches, before the team boards its buses to Hershey.
Thomas Jefferson doesn’t look back while chasing consecutive PIAA Class 4A titles
November 24, 2020
Thomas Jefferson likes to celebrate its championship tradition, but this year’s football team has grown a little tired of talking about last year’s accomplishments.
PIAA drastically cuts football championship tickets to meet Gov. Wolf’s order
State championship football teams will receive 386 tickets apiece from the PIAA for this weekend’s games, far fewer than originally planned.
PIAA puts football ticket sales on hold after governor tightens gathering limits
November 23, 2020
Ticket sales are on hold for the PIAA football championships after Gov. Tom Wolf announced new limits on gathering sizes.
Pine-Richland headed to Hershey after wild win over Governor Mifflin
November 21, 2020
HOLLIDAYSBURG — “It was over” when Pine-Richland stumbled off the bus and let Governor Mifflin score the first three touchdowns.
Pine-Richland’s stout run defense faces star tailback in PIAA 5A semifinals
Here’s what makes Pine-Richland’s semifinal opponent dangerous:
Defending champion Thomas Jefferson routs Oil City, returns to PIAA 4A final
November 20, 2020
Thomas Jefferson had the football 10 times Friday night and scored nine touchdowns, an almost-perfect performance that has the Jaguars headed back to Hershey.
Slowing Wilmington’s running game key for Beaver Falls in PIAA 2A semifinal
November 19, 2020
Studying film of Wilmington’s offensive line made Beaver Falls coach Nick Nardone think back to a Week 2 matchup with Laurel.
Seton LaSalle hires Mauro Monz as football coach
Seton LaSalle reached into its past to find its future football coach.
PIAA urges winter sports teams to ‘set the foundation’ by starting practice Friday
November 18, 2020
The PIAA is encouraging winter sports teams to “set the foundation” by starting preseason practice Friday, if possible.
Individual schools must decide if athletes wear masks for competition, PIAA says
Could wearing a mask during a football game or soccer match be considered an unsafe condition?
WPIAL bans Peters Township band after investigating ‘blackface’ allegations
November 17, 2020
The Peters Township marching band is prohibited from performing at any WPIAL event until the school district submits a plan to “eradicate the social and racial insensitivity displayed by the marching band and its director/supervisors,” the WPIAL announced Tuesday.
Central Valley’s Ameer Dudley chooses Ivy League football, ‘best education’
Three days after winning a WPIAL championship, Central Valley quarterback Ameer Dudley had more reason to celebrate.
WPIAL considers changes to swimming championships, other winter sports
November 16, 2020
The WPIAL might hold its swimming and basketball championships somewhere other than Pitt’s facilities this winter. Of course, that’s assuming there are winter sports championships.
Thomas Jefferson stops Aliquippa in OT in WPIAL finals dream matchup
November 14, 2020
If there was any uncertainty on Thomas Jefferson’s sideline, it was about the high school rules for overtime.
North Allegheny runners elevate their game, sweep PIAA cross country titles
There’s an old theory that Western Pennsylvania cross country runners are better on hilly courses while their counterparts from the east thrive on fast, flat stretches.
Beaver Falls’ big backs will test Sto-Rox in WPIAL Class 2A final
Beaver Falls could use multiple receivers, spread the field and throw the football in Saturday’s WPIAL championship.
Aliquippa brings ‘massive’ line into Class 4A final against Thomas Jefferson
When Thomas Jefferson’s Bill Cherpak talks about Aliquippa’s linemen, he doesn’t compare them with any group he coached to a WPIAL title.
WPIAL Class 4A football championship breakdown: Aliquippa vs. Thomas Jefferson
WPIAL Class 4A football championship
Central Valley claims WPIAL title with yet another dominant performance
November 13, 2020
Call it a mercy mission.
Trib HSSN’s high school football championships primer
The WPIAL will host four football championship games Saturday after holding the Class 3A final Friday night. The Pittsburgh City League also will contest its championship game Saturday afternoon.
Central Catholic football forfeits PIAA quarterfinal over covid-19 concerns
Central Catholic’s run in the state football playoffs is over before it started.
WPIAL Class 2A football championship breakdown: Beaver Falls vs. Sto-Rox
November 12, 2020
WPIAL Class 2A football championship
Central Valley quarterback Ameer Dudley sets commitment date
November 8, 2020
Central Valley quarterback Ameer Dudley has a big game and a big decision ahead.
PIAA announces sites, times for football state semifinals
Central Catholic’s first opponent in the state playoffs will have a home-field advantage.
5 things we learned: Central Catholic coach Terry Totten climbs list with 6th WPIAL title
Only three football coaches have won more WPIAL titles than Central Catholic’s Terry Totten, but he hasn’t spent any time contemplating his place in league history.
Campus visit convinces Gateway’s Derrick Davis to pick LSU
November 7, 2020
Derrick Davis visited Louisiana around the age of 8 for a youth track meet. He finished 17th in the country in the 100-meter dash, an early glimpse of the athleticism that has made him a coveted college football recruit.
Central Catholic tops North Allegheny, repeats as WPIAL Class 6A champion
November 6, 2020
Eddy Tillman scored three rushing touchdowns and Central Catholic’s defense was dominant in the second half Friday night, a familiar combination for the Vikings in recent years.
North Allegheny cross country teams set for unique PIAA championship race
In a typical cross country meet, runners can see the competition ahead of them or hear their footsteps approaching from behind.
5 things to watch: WPIAL 6A finalists linked through their coaches
A chain connects Central Catholic and North Allegheny, but that’s not the only link between the two football teams.
WPIAL Class 6A football finals breakdown: North Allegheny vs. Central Catholic
WPIAL Class 6A football championship
North Allegheny, Central Catholic doubted if anyone would celebrate WPIAL 6A title
Seven times, North Allegheny coach Art Walker has taken a football team to the WPIAL finals. Central Catholic’s Terry Totten has the Vikings in the championship game for the eighth time.
WPIAL will start winter sports on time
November 4, 2020
With the first practices only weeks away, the WPIAL won’t make any changes to the winter sports schedule after receiving mixed feedback from schools.
5 things we learned in opening round of WPIAL football playoffs
October 31, 2020
Sto-Rox’s coach LaRoi Johnson has a bundle of 2-point plays he will call in any situation, but with Friday’s game on the line, he summoned his sophomore kicker.
North Allegheny, North Hills set to host WPIAL football finals
The WPIAL football finals are moving from the North Shore to the North Hills.
Dominant Central Catholic defense shuts out Mt. Lebanon, returns to WPIAL finals
October 30, 2020
Like old west prospectors searching for gold, defensive lineman Bralen Henderson and his Central Catholic teammates spent this fall talking about nuggets.
What to watch in Week 8: Small-school Aliquippa enters 4A playoffs as top seed
The No. 1 seed in WPIAL Class 4A football is one of the smallest schools in the WPIAL.
Central Catholic stands in way of Mt. Lebanon’s 1st WPIAL final since 2000
Mt. Lebanon’s motto this season is simply: Why not us?
PIAA approves covid-19 guidelines for winter, remains ‘cautiously optimistic’
October 29, 2020
PIAA basketball teams should limit the number of individuals on their bench to maintain a social distance of six feet or more when possible.
Pay to play? PIAA board discusses fee for state playoff qualifiers
October 28, 2020
The PIAA might someday charge schools a fee to compete in the state playoffs, creating an alternate source of income as the coronavirus pandemic batters its budget.
PIAA gives teams home-field advantage in state playoffs
Some WPIAL teams will have a home-field advantage in the state playoffs.
WPIAL football committee’s choices leave ‘sour taste’ for some coaches
October 25, 2020
After Avonworth’s regular-season finale was canceled because of coronavirus concerns, football coach Duke Johncour told his players to start preparing for any number of playoff scenarios.
5 things we learned in Week 7: Two leading QBs questionable for WPIAL playoff openers
October 24, 2020
Two of the WPIAL’s top quarterbacks are questionable to play as their teams approach the playoffs.
Breaking down the 2020 WPIAL football playoffs
Here’s a class-by-class breakdown of the WPIAL football playoff brackets:
WPIAL reveals 2020 football playoff brackets
The WPIAL promised its football teams weeks ago that if they canceled games for covid-19, those decisions wouldn’t hurt their qualifying chances come playoff time.
WPIAL football rankings for Week 7
Class 6A
WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel make final predictions for football pairings
This was a football season unlike any other.
Mt. Lebanon tops Seneca Valley with blocked extra point in overtime
October 23, 2020
With its playoff hopes in jeopardy, Mt. Lebanon would’ve gone for two in overtime Friday night, sticking with coach Bob Palko’s win-or-go-home reputation.
Home field in playoffs likely at stake as Mt. Lebanon visits Seneca Valley
If Mt. Lebanon wins Friday’s regular-season finale at Seneca Valley, the Blue Devils will likely receive one of the top two seeds in the WPIAL Class 6A playoffs.
Avonworth cancels Friday football game, Central Valley finds new opponent
October 22, 2020
Avonworth canceled Friday night’s football game over covid-related concerns, Central Valley athletic director Sam Cercone said Thursday.
North Allegheny’s Khalil Dinkins commits to Penn State
October 21, 2020
Video conference calls replaced many of the in-school recruiting visits and campus tours canceled during the pandemic.
5 things we learned in Week 6: WPIAL linemen can score touchdowns too
October 17, 2020
Could there be a quarterback controversy brewing at Pine-Richland?
WPIAL football rankings for Week 6
Class 6A
Covid-19 shutdown forces defending champion North Allegheny girls to turn focus to playoffs
As a defending WPIAL champion, no one would’ve blamed North Allegheny’s girls soccer team for glancing ahead to the playoffs.
Sto-Rox forces 7 turnovers, lets Josh Jenkins shine in victory over Western Beaver
October 16, 2020
Sto-Rox’s Josh Jenkins is a little like Taysom Hill of the New Orleans Saints, says coach LaRoi Johnson. Or, if you want an old-school reference closer to McKees Rocks, he suggests Kordell Stewart.
5 things to watch in Week 6: Some WPIAL conferences may crown no champion
Some WPIAL football conferences may have no champion this season.
Explosive Sto-Rox offense, Western Beaver’s big-play defense share Week 6 limelight
The lights above Sto-Rox’s football field aren’t new, but they might feel a little brighter this week.
WPIAL reveals postseason plans, awards home games to higher seeds
October 14, 2020
If playoff qualifiers can’t be determined from the standings, the WPIAL steering committee for each sport will decide who makes the postseason this fall.
Baldwin, Seneca Valley delay football game to Saturday
Baldwin and Seneca Valley have delayed this week’s football game to Saturday.
PIAA flexibility lets Blackhawk, New Castle reschedule football game Oct. 30
Blackhawk and New Castle rescheduled their postponed football game for Oct. 30, the first week of the WPIAL playoffs, taking advantage of a PIAA decision to let teams extend the regular season.
5 things we learned in WPIAL Week 5
How will the WPIAL decide which football teams make the playoffs since covid-19 cancellations made the standings unbalanced?
After strong section season, North Allegheny runners prepare for championship meets
When North Allegheny’s runners walked to the starting line wearing masks for their early-September scrimmage, coach John Neff wasn’t sure what to expect from cross country season under covid-19 conditions.
Small-school Aliquippa shows big-play ability in victory over Chartiers Valley
October 9, 2020
Aliquippa is a small school known for its big plays.
Covid-19 case forces New Castle to shut down football activities for 2 weeks
New Castle is shutting down its football program for two weeks after a varsity player tested positive for coronavirus, costing the Red Hurricanes at least two games, athletic director Sam Flora said Friday.
5 things to watch in Week 5: Gateway returns to ‘normal’
After a two-week coronavirus hiatus, Gateway’s football team is getting back to normal. Or as close to normal as possible in a week that starts on Wednesday and ends with a game Sunday night.
Aliquippa, Chartiers Valley follow different routes to Parkway clash in Class 4A
October 8, 2020
Anthony Collura heard stories about the horse, the rider and the flaming spear that arrives at Aliquippa football games, but the Chartiers Valley senior wasn’t sure they were true.
PIAA tweaks fall playoff brackets, cross country qualifiers for state championship
October 7, 2020
The PIAA made changes to its fall postseason plans Wednesday including a move that lets more WPIAL runners into the state cross country championships.
PIAA readies covid-19 guidelines for winter, intends to start seasons as scheduled
As fall sports approach the postseason, the PIAA is turning its attention to winter.
New attendance limits remove some stress for WPIAL schools
October 6, 2020
High school administrators across the PIAA were verifying the number of seats in their stadiums and gymnasiums Tuesday after Gov. Tom Wolf eased limits on gathering sizes.
2 WPIAL teams earn national recognition from High School Football America
October 5, 2020
Two WPIAL football teams are earning national attention.
Gateway, Penn-Trafford choose Sunday night kickoff for football game
Sunday night football is coming to the WPIAL.
10 members of WPIAL Diversity & Inclusion Council bring varied experiences
When Loran Cooley met the other individuals chosen for the first WPIAL Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Council, he noticed a long list of doctorates.
4 WPIAL football teams maintain long conference streaks as Penn Hills’ ends
October 4, 2020
One of WPIAL football’s longest active conference winning streaks ended Saturday, leaving four double-digit streaks intact.
5 things we learned in Week 4: Zero tolerance works for Elizabeth Forward
October 3, 2020
If the other team doesn’t score, it can’t win.
WPIAL Football Rankings for Week 4
Here’s a look at this week’s WPIAL football rankings:
Multiple-QB approach working for North Allegheny
The Friday night started with Tanner Potts taking the first snap for North Allegheny’s offense. Ryan Treser handled the second snap, and soon Greg Phillips was behind center for the Tigers.
Gannon Carothers’ versatility helps No. 2 Central Catholic defeat No. 3 Seneca Valley
October 2, 2020
Gannon Carothers’ coaches say the junior plays five positions for Central Catholic, a versatility that seemed invaluable Friday night.
Gov. Wolf: Spectator situation ‘confusing’ for schools, no updated guidance yet
The gathering limits ruled unconstitutional two weeks ago are back in place statewide, leaving some high school athletic directors to ask: Now what?
Spectators again restricted at high school sports but Gov. Wolf says ‘stay tuned’
October 1, 2020
North Allegheny will have a socially distant student section at Friday’s football game, and Norwin is moving forward with its homecoming festivities as planned.
Kiski Area running back Kenneth Blake commits to Albany
September 30, 2020
Kiski Area’s Kenneth Blake will play college football in New York for a team with Western Pennsylvania connections.
Clairton cancels Week 4 football game with Bishop Canevin
Clairton football practices are shut down until next week over covid-19 concerns and Saturday’s game against Bishop Canevin was canceled, the school announced Wednesday night.
5 things we learned in Week 3: Drop in classification lifts WPIAL teams to 3-0 starts
September 26, 2020
After years battling as one of the smallest WPIAL schools in Class 5A football, Chartiers Valley this season became one of the largest in 4A — a move that’s had an immediate impact.
WPIAL Football Rankings for Week 3
Class 6A
Young North Hills boys soccer team looking to build
With almost two dozen sophomores and freshmen on the roster, North Hills boys soccer coach Jared Steigerwald has focused this fall on teaching fundamentals.
North Allegheny answers questions with victory over top-ranked Central Catholic
September 25, 2020
North Allegheny’s Khalil Dinkins knew there were questions about his untested football team entering Friday’s game with rival Central Catholic.
5 things to watch in Week 3: WPIAL No. 1 vs. No. 2 in largest classifications
It’s one vs. two, twice.
Central Catholic’s Eddy Tillman gets home-field advantage vs. North Allegheny
September 24, 2020
Central Catholic’s football team doesn’t have a home field, but running back Eddy Tillman will be close to home Friday night.
WPIAL football playoffs will have 8-team brackets in most classifications
WPIAL football teams can start counting their Gardner Points now, because some will need them to break ties in about five weeks.
PIAA adopts slimmed-down state playoff brackets for fall sports
September 23, 2020
The state playoffs are now a win-and-get-in scenario.
Gov. Wolf’s veto of House Bill 2787 stands as state House override falls short
To the dismay of many high school sports fans, Gov. Tom Wolf’s veto of House Bill 2787 will stand.
WPIAL schools start allowing more spectators as governor’s limits become voluntary
September 22, 2020
Gov. Tom Wolf would prefer schools adhere to his gathering limits at sports events, but acknowledged Tuesday they’re not legally binding “at least for the moment.”
WPIAL chooses alternate site for cross country championships
September 21, 2020
Cross country runners who competed last week in the Red, White and Blue Classic got an early look at the WPIAL championship course.
Gov. Wolf vetoes House Bill 2787, leaving high school sports spectators in limbo
Gov. Tom Wolf followed through on his promise Monday and vetoed legislation that would have let school districts set their own attendance limits for sports.
5 things we learned in Week 2 of high school football
September 19, 2020
With Friday night’s win over Mt. Lebanon, a team Canon-McMillan hadn’t defeated in 12 years, the Big Macs bolstered their playoff chances.
WPIAL football rankings for Week 2
Ranking, record and previous week’s ranking:
Under new leadership, North Hills girls soccer optimistic for success
Rick Kabbert was leery he’d face some skepticism.
Top-ranked Pine-Richland wastes no time in victory over No. 4 Upper St. Clair
Pine-Richland quarterback Cole Spencer had the football in his hands so often Friday night that he felt like he’d left a half-dozen touchdowns on the field.
Wolf administration asks schools to voluntarily enforce gathering limits
September 18, 2020
The updated guidance for high school sports and spectators promised by Gov. Tom Wolf was a no-show Friday.
5 things to watch in Week 2: Seneca Valley among 7 teams ready for delayed openers
Tired of making each other black and blue, Seneca Valley’s football players want to hit somebody not wearing blue and black.
Baldwin cancels 2 football games after coach tests positive for covid-19
September 17, 2020
Baldwin shut down all football activities for at least 14 days after a member of the coaching staff tested positive for covid-19, the school announced Thursday.
Attendance limits force Neshannock football mother to experience ‘worst fear’ from afar
Landon Shaffer’s parents were allotted one ticket for his high school football game, so his mother resorted to watching a video stream on her cell phone.
West Greene-California football game postponed over covid-19 concerns
September 16, 2020
Covid-19 concerns caused West Greene to postpone Friday’s football game against California.
Gov. Wolf: Schools will receive updated guidance on sports spectators this week
The state Department of Education will release updated guidance this week regarding spectators at interscholastic sporting events, Gov. Tom Wolf said Wednesday.
State lawmakers urge Gov. Wolf to sign bill, let schools set spectator limits for sports
A bipartisan group of state lawmakers gathered Wednesday and urged Gov. Tom Wolf to sign House Bill 2787, legislation that lets individual schools set spectator limits for sports.
5 things we learned from WPIAL Week 1: Smattering of fans an ‘eerie’ atmosphere
September 12, 2020
WPIAL football looked familiar, but it certainly sounded quieter than ever.
WPIAL football rankings for Week 1
WPIAL football
Upper St. Clair stays grounded, defeats rival Bethel Park with 5 rushing TDs
September 11, 2020
Dual-threat quarterback Ethan Dahlem scored twice Friday night, yet Upper St. Clair didn’t need him to carry the load alone anymore.
Sto-Rox cancels football game 3 hours before kickoff
A few hours before kickoff, Sto-Rox canceled its season-opening football game.
Controlling tempo key for Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park in Allegheny 6 opener
Mike Junko doesn’t make his team run gassers, suicide sprints or whatever other name the exhausting workouts are called.
North Allegheny boys soccer focused on finishing chances
September 10, 2020
In soccer coach Bobby Vosmaer’s view, his North Allegheny boys need to finish their scoring chances to keep their season from ending early again.
Waynesburg adds Ariz. wrestling champion as WPIAL sorts out-of-state transfers
For the second year in a row, Waynesburg’s wrestling team has added a state champion from another part of the country.
Gov. Wolf says schools shouldn’t decide spectator limits for sports
Advocates for House Bill 2787 are ignoring reality, said Gov. Tom Wolf, who insisted Thursday that individual schools shouldn’t set their own attendance policies for athletics.
Serra Catholic postpones football team’s season opener
Serra Catholic, which closed its school building for a couple of days this week, has also postponed its football team’s season opener.
WPIAL football teams ready to embark on season like no other
After an evening of continuous collisions, two of the WPIAL’s top football teams wanted to show their respect for one another, but they weren’t exactly sure how.
Central Catholic transfer Langston Moses wins appeal, eligible for basketball playoffs
September 9, 2020
If Central Catholic qualifies for the WPIAL basketball playoffs, junior Langston Moses is eligible to take part this winter, the WPIAL decided Wednesday.
Pa. Senate passes bill letting school districts decide who attends sporting events
If House Bill 2787 becomes law, state Rep. Mike Reese plans to watch some high school football games and see his niece play volleyball at Hempfield.
Veteran QB Cole Spencer leads Pine-Richland into new Class 5A schedule
September 7, 2020
Pine-Richland quarterback Cole Spencer threw for nearly 3,000 yards last season, but that isn’t the number his coach likes most.
North Hills to rely on senior class to navigate new-look conference slate
North Hills enters the fall with a football team that’s senior-heavy but light on experience.
WPIAL sets football playoffs for 2021, but this year’s format clouded by covid-19
September 6, 2020
Covid-19 uncertainty clouds this year’s playoff picture, but the WPIAL did make a recent decision about the 2021 football postseason.
WPIAL Class 5A football breakdown: South Fayette, Pine-Richland face new challenges
How long has it been since South Fayette wasn’t a clear conference favorite?
Gateway junior Patrick Body Jr. becomes 2nd Gators safety with Pitt offer
There’s already a four-star safety in Gateway’s senior class, but now there’s a Power 5 defensive back in the junior class as well.
One WPIAL football team expects hundreds of fans at its opener: South Fayette
September 4, 2020
South Fayette’s football team will travel two hours for its season opener, but there is an obvious silver lining. By playing a game out of state, the Lions can have a couple of hundred of their fans in the stands.
Legislation that gives schools say on spectators moves closer to Gov. Wolf’s desk
September 3, 2020
Before WPIAL football teams kick off next week, state lawmakers may send a bill to Gov. Tom Wolf’s desk that would let more spectators attend interscholastic events.
Gov. Wolf lifts ban on spectators at interscholastic sports
September 2, 2020
Spectators can watch football, soccer and all other high school sports this fall after Gov. Tom Wolf lifted his ban on fans at interscholastic athletics. But Wolf kept strict limits on gathering sizes, meaning many stadium seats and gym bleachers might stay empty.
Almost every member school will play fall sports, WPIAL survey says
September 1, 2020
The results of the WPIAL survey are clear: Almost everyone is playing fall sports.
PIAA rejects Thursday kickoff request for WPIAL football season
High school football season won’t start on a Thursday night.
Central Catholic returns 2,000-yard rusher but QB job remains 5-way battle
August 31, 2020
Central Catholic has five guys competing to play quarterback, and whoever wins the job will practice handing the football to Eddy Tillman.
Strong junior class has Mt. Lebanon coach Bob Palko optimistic in Year 2
Mt. Lebanon coach Bob Palko had 14 sophomores earn a varsity letter in his first season with the Blue Devils.
North Allegheny replaces top rusher, passer, receiver from last year’s lineup
North Allegheny coach Art Walker has always had a go-to guy in the backfield, one running back who’d shoulder the bulk of the carries.
Central Catholic football star, Pitt recruit Elliot Donald skipping senior season
August 30, 2020
The possibility he’d infect his granddad or any other family member with covid-19 was too much risk, said Central Catholic football star Elliot Donald, who decided to skip his senior season.
Shady Side Academy delays football season until Week 3
August 28, 2020
Shady Side Academy won’t start football season until Week 3, a decision meant to limit potential exposure to coronavirus.
Uniontown reinstates football, soccer seasons after initially canceling fall contact sports
Football and soccer seasons were reinstated Friday at Uniontown.
Peters Township has high-end talent to contend again
August 27, 2020
Peters Township came within one point of winning the WPIAL Class 5A title last season, but that rain-soaked loss didn’t close the team’s championship window.
Lack of returning starters doesn’t faze Bethel Park
Bethel Park graduated all 11 starters on offense and 10 on defense, but coach Brian DeLallo won’t call this a “rebuilding” year.
South Fayette brings cutting-edge offense into Class 5A competition
South Fayette quarterback Naman Alemada was running the New England Patriots offense at times last season, with plays designed for small-but-quick receivers.
Dahlem, Pantelis return to bolster Upper St. Clair aerial attack
Ethan Dahlem and David Pantelis have a quarterback-receiver connection that Upper St. Clair coach Mike Junko describes as nearly clairvoyant.
Online offseason helps West Allegheny, new coach get up to speed
West Allegheny not only has a new head coach but also a new offensive coordinator and an entirely new offense.
Pittsburgh’s City League teams can start fall sports without delay
August 26, 2020
There will be City League sports this fall.
Covid-19 forces Seneca Valley to cancel football scrimmage, season opener
August 25, 2020
Concerned that an athlete had direct exposure to covid-19, Seneca Valley shut down football workouts indefinitely Tuesday, meaning it also must cancel its preseason scrimmage and season opener.
Would school districts be legally liable for athletes contracting covid-19?
If a school district lets students play sports and one contracts covid-19 with complications, could the school be held legally responsible?
WPIAL sets Sept. 1 deadline for schools to opt out of fall sports
August 24, 2020
The WPIAL believes a large majority of member schools will play sports this fall, but it’s hoping to know for sure in the next week.
Mt. Lebanon shuts down football workouts, must cancel season opener
A positive covid-19 test caused Mt. Lebanon to shut down football activities until next week, a delay that will force the team to cancel its preseason scrimmage and season opener.
Football coaches fear postponement, transfers could doom City League
August 23, 2020
City League football coaches are worried about losing their season, but they’re also fearful they could lose the entire league.
WPIAL treasurer Michael Allison voted ‘no’ to starting fall sports. Here’s why.
August 22, 2020
Hopewell principal Michael Allison is a former high school athlete and coach, the treasurer of the WPIAL and president of the Pennsylvania Principals Association.
PIAA ignores Gov. Wolf’s recommendation, allows fall sports to start Monday
August 21, 2020
High school football season starts Monday, along with soccer, cross country, girls volleyball and all other PIAA fall sports.
Allegheny County schools can play football under health department’s 50-person limit
The PIAA voted to allow high school sports to proceed on schedule. Allegheny County schools got a double dose of good news.
Sto-Rox hires Aliquippa’s Dwight Hines, all-time scorer Kerry Connolly as basketball coaches
After decades in red and black, Dwight Hines is embracing green energy at Sto-Rox.
PIAA set to make ‘biggest announcement’ regarding fall sports
August 20, 2020
The PIAA has been around for more than a century, and Friday’s decision surely ranks among its most debated.
Allegheny County Health Department offers to assist WPIAL with covid-19 restrictions
The WPIAL and Allegheny County Health Department will meet Friday to discuss plans for potentially playing high school sports this fall.
Health department restrictions could force Allegheny County football teams elsewhere
August 19, 2020
If there’s a high school football season this fall, teams from Allegheny County might play home games at stadiums in neighboring counties.
Quaker Valley halts team workouts after off-campus exposure to covid-19
August 18, 2020
Quaker Valley suspended all workouts by its sports teams after learning several athletes were exposed to covid-19 at an off-campus gathering, the school announced Tuesday.
PIAA wants to move forward with fall sports, executive director tells legislators
The PIAA wants to move forward with fall sports, executive director Bob Lombardi told state legislators Tuesday, citing favorable data collected by UPMC athletic trainers.
State’s health secretary says Gov. Wolf won’t mandate cancellation of high school sports
If the PIAA ignores Gov. Tom Wolf’s advice and allows fall sports to continue, his administration won’t turn his strong recommendation into a mandate.
State lawmakers question data used to recommend PIAA sports shutdown
August 17, 2020
Republican state lawmakers are questioning the specific data — or lack thereof — that Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration used to recommend shutting down youth sports this fall.
Freedom cancels football workouts over covid-19 concerns
Freedom administrators canceled football workouts for this week over concerns a player was possibly exposed to the coronavirus.
Kiski School will adopt bubble strategy to play sports
August 15, 2020
The NBA and NHL successfully used an isolation “bubble” to restart their sports, and now Kiski School will take that idea to the high school level.
PIAA ‘disappointed’ with answers in meeting with Gov. Wolf’s staff
August 14, 2020
In a word, Friday’s meeting with Gov. Tom Wolf’s staff was “uneventful.”
Gov. Wolf stands behind fall sports shutdown but says ‘I’m just one person’
August 13, 2020
Gov. Tom Wolf said he’s unlikely to change his recommendation to delay youth sports, no matter what the PIAA says, but described his role as “one person that has an opinion.”
WPIAL suspends Seton LaSalle assistant baseball coach for recruiting
August 12, 2020
A Seton LaSalle assistant baseball coach is facing a yearlong suspension for violating PIAA recruiting rules.
Summit Academy is 2nd WPIAL school to forgo fall sports
Summit Academy won’t play sports this fall, becoming the second WPIAL school to cancel athletics over covid-19 concerns.
State Rep. Mike Reese, Republican lawmakers take on governor on high school sports
August 11, 2020
A recommendation from Gov. Tom Wolf can easily turn into a mandate, said state Rep. Mike Reese, who wants the Legislature to act before that happens with youth sports.
As high school sports debate continues, Levine stands firm, Republicans plan legislation
August 10, 2020
State Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine stood firm Monday on delaying youth sports until next year, and two state legislators announced plans to join the debate over high school athletics.
WPIAL calls Gov. Wolf’s recommendation ‘uncalculated, inconsistent and unfair’
The WPIAL strongly supports playing high school sports this fall despite Gov. Tom Wolf’s recommendation they be postponed until January.
If PIAA shuts down, AAU teams, other private programs could flourish
August 7, 2020
Western Pa. Bruins basketball director John Tate jokes that his doctor recommends he eat fewer salt and vinegar chips. In many ways, he views Gov. Tom Wolf’s newest sports recommendation that same way.
PIAA delays fall sports for 2 weeks to talk with Gov. Wolf, state legislature
The PIAA heard “thousands of voices,” so it’s trying to save fall sports.
State legislator urges PIAA to keep high school sports in fall
The governor wants high school sports delayed until January, but at least one member of the state legislature disagrees.
Pittsburgh Public Schools plans to postpone fall sports in City League
August 6, 2020
Pittsburgh Public Schools announced plans Thursday to postpone fall sports in the City League, a move tied to the district’s decision to start classes exclusively online.
Gov. Wolf recommends high school sports be delayed until Jan. 1
With fall sports in the balance, will the PIAA treat Gov. Tom Wolf’s recommendation as a suggestion or a mandate?
Uncertainty remains for spectators hoping to attend high school games
August 5, 2020
New covid-19 guidelines for spectators at high school sporting events weren’t released Wednesday as many school administrators, coaches and fans had hoped.
Former WPIAL star Phil Jurkovec receives NCAA waiver, eligible at Boston College
August 4, 2020
Former WPIAL star quarterback Phil Jurkovec, who transferred from Notre Dame to Boston College in January, was granted an NCAA waiver Tuesday that makes him immediately eligible.
Central Valley’s Myles Walker commits to Akron
Central Valley’s Myles Walker, who celebrated a WPIAL football title last fall, committed Monday to Akron.
North Allegheny’s Nate Hoke commits to ‘dream school’ BYU, where dad played
Nate Hoke doesn’t promote himself on social media like many athletes his age.
Gov. Wolf: Online-only schools shouldn’t play sports this fall
August 3, 2020
Online classes await students at a number of schools this fall, but that wasn’t expected to keep their sports teams from competing.
Penn Hills could become 2nd WPIAL school to drop ‘Indians’ nickname
Penn Hills may become the second WPIAL school to drop its Indians nickname.
Patriot League school Lehigh ‘checked all boxes’ for Baldwin safety Connor Lavelle
Two of the colleges recruiting Connor Lavelle are about 15 miles apart in Eastern Pennsylvania, so he visited both on the same road trip.
WPIAL football recruits share written scholarship offers as Aug. 1 arrives
August 1, 2020
Now, it’s in writing.
WPIAL reveals 2 playoff formats with 8- or 4-team football brackets
July 31, 2020
The WPIAL revealed two football playoff options Friday, one if there are state playoffs this fall and another if they’re canceled in advance.
WPIAL delays start dates for fall sports
The WPIAL delayed the start date for most fall sports, a decision executive director Amy Scheuneman compared to a two-hour delay on a winter morning.
Start dates for WPIAL fall sports likely changing after board adopts ‘hybrid’ option
July 30, 2020
The start dates for WPIAL fall sports likely are changing.
PIAA emphasizes ban on spectators comes from Gov. Wolf — not PIAA
The PIAA released a statement Thursday emphasizing that the current ban on spectators at high school sports events was imposed by Gov. Tom Wolf — not the PIAA.
Some changes to fall sports timeline still on the table after PIAA meeting
July 29, 2020
Fall sports season might end earlier for some schools and start a little later for others.
No spectators allowed, according to new PIAA covid-19 guidelines
High school sports remain on schedule for the fall, but the new PIAA covid-19 guidelines approved Wednesday describe a season unlike any other.
Pa. health secretary: Data will guide state’s approach to high school sports
July 28, 2020
The PIAA Sports Medicine Advisory Committee strongly recommends starting high school sports on time, but Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine declined to endorse that decision Tuesday.
Central Catholic basketball transfer Langston Moses eligible for regular season, WPIAL says
July 27, 2020
Central Catholic transfer Langston Moses is eligible for next boys basketball season but ineligible to play in the postseason, the WPIAL decided Monday.
WPIAL finals at Heinz Field in question as PIAA considers shorter football season
The WPIAL might not use Heinz Field for its football championships this fall for multiple reasons.
Dayton extends 1st Division I offers to 3 WPIAL football recruits
Three WPIAL football players drew their first Division I offers from the same Ohio school.
Football coaches association optimistic PIAA starts on time, offers scenarios if delayed
July 26, 2020
The Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association shared nine different scenarios with the PIAA in recent weeks, each with a different start date for the fall season.
With allegations behind him, Nick Lackovich returns as Aliquippa boys basketball coach
July 24, 2020
This was more than a job opportunity for Nick Lackovich, who was rehired Thursday as Aliquippa’s boys basketball coach.
No locker rooms at halftime? PIAA readies sport-specific guidelines for fall
July 23, 2020
The PIAA will release sport-specific guidelines for teams, coaches and officials next week, a key step in the return-to-play process for high school athletics.
Central Catholic running back Eddy Tillman announces 1st Division I offer
July 22, 2020
Central Catholic running back Eddy Tillman, a 2,000-yard rusher last season, received his first Division I college offer this week.
Flipped? Condensed? Overlapped? Options aren’t ideal if PIAA seasons need altered
There are days when Aaron Albert coaches football in the morning, sprints to his real estate job for a few hours and then heads to the ballpark for evening baseball.
Trinity’s Courtney Dahlquist commits to Big South champion Campbell
July 21, 2020
The Campbell women’s basketball roster is dotted with players from North Carolina and Virginia down to Florida, fitting for a team in the Big South.
Pine-Richland wide receiver Eli Jochem adds 1st Division I offer
Pine-Richland’s Eli Jochem, one of the WPIAL’s top receivers, announced his first Division I offer Monday from Fordham.
PIAA approves winter championship sites for next 4 seasons
July 19, 2020
Get your Hershey’s chocolate ready.
PIAA approves kicking game, scrimmage options for sub-varsity football teams
Middle school, junior high and junior varsity football coaches can eliminate kickoffs and punts this season, or turn their games into scrimmages, if they choose.
Heavily recruited Peters Township safety Donovan McMillon commits to Florida
July 18, 2020
At this time last summer, Peters Township safety Donovan McMillon didn’t have a single Division I football offer.
2 WPIAL rising sophomores add basketball offers from Minnesota
July 17, 2020
Minnesota women’s basketball coach Lindsay Whalen, a former Olympian and WNBA star, is recruiting two of the WPIAL’s top rising sophomores.
Neighboring states delay fall sports, but PIAA says ‘our folks don’t want that’
Pennsylvania is surrounded on three sides by states that already have delayed the start of fall sports, a list New York joined late this week.
PIAA approves weight class reduction for wrestling from 14 to 13
July 16, 2020
PIAA wrestling is dropping weight.
PIAA moving forward with fall sports as scheduled
July 15, 2020
The PIAA won’t cancel or delay fall sports, for now.
2 WPIAL sophomores announce basketball offers from Marshall
July 14, 2020
Two rising sophomores in WPIAL girls basketball received Division I offers from the same school Tuesday.
Perry searching for new football coach after Rod Rutherford resigns
Perry football coach Rod Rutherford has resigned, leaving his alma mater searching for a replacement just weeks before the season starts.
Pine-Richland’s Miguel Jackson becomes 3rd WPIAL senior committed to Liberty
Pine-Richland’s Miguel Jackson visited Liberty’s campus on Independence Day weekend and saw some fireworks on the drive home.
Pitt, Penn State make the cut as Gateway’s Derrick Davis narrows his college options
July 12, 2020
Pitt and Penn State both made the cut Sunday as Gateway football star Derrick Davis narrowed his college recruiting options.
Avonworth tight end Trevor Faulkner commits to Air Force Academy
Avonworth rising senior Trevor Faulkner, who had more than a dozen Division I offers, committed Sunday to Air Force.
Pitt commit Nahki Johnson announces offer from national champion LSU
July 11, 2020
West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson committed to Pitt last summer, but on Saturday night he announced an offer from the defending BCS national champion.
Gateway’s Derrick Davis ready to narrow college football offers to Top 7
The WPIAL’s top football recruit is getting closer to a decision.
A few more doors open for Black athletic directors as WPIAL tries to promote diversity
When Sto-Rox hired LaRoi Johnson as athletic director this summer, he used social media to thank those who had opened doors for him in his career.
Another neighboring state decides to delay high school football season
Another of Pennsylvania’s neighbors is delaying the start of high school football season.
Mt. Lebanon’s Ashleigh Connor adds 1st Division I basketball offer
July 10, 2020
Mt. Lebanon’s Ashleigh Connor, one of the WPIAL’s top rising juniors, announced her first Division I basketball offer Friday from Xavier.
Should high school teams follow professional, college sports and test for covid-19?
July 7, 2020
Coronavirus testing is being used by professional and college teams to restart their seasons, so why not high school sports?
Coronavirus pandemic could worsen WPIAL shortage of football officials
July 4, 2020
The WPIAL doesn’t have enough football officials, and the coronavirus pandemic could make the shortage worse this fall.
Athletes not required to wear face masks during workouts, state says
July 3, 2020
Pennsylvania’s athletes are not required to wear a face mask during workouts or competition, according to guidance provided Friday by Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration.
Return-to-football workouts expose those ‘slacking’ when schools closed
Central Catholic’s campus was closed for three months, cutting off access to the football team’s weight room, but most players found ways to stay in shape.
Face mask ‘gray area,’ county restrictions cause schools to cancel workouts
July 2, 2020
Must high school athletes wear face masks during workouts?
Adam Kaufman resigns as Moon boys basketball coach ‘to be a dad’
July 1, 2020
The coronavirus pandemic forced Adam Kaufman to slow down, stay home and spend more time with his family.
PIAA optimistic football season starts on time as some states delay their kickoffs
High school football season won’t start on time in neighboring New Jersey, but Pennsylvania has no plans to delay kickoff.
Woodland Hills halts sports workouts to re-evaluate covid-19 guidelines
Woodland Hills was the first WPIAL school to resume summer workouts, but the Wolverines halted those sessions this week to re-evaluate their covid-19 guidelines.
Shaler uses caution, sends football players home over covid-19 concerns
June 30, 2020
Choosing to take a cautious approach, Shaler coach Jim Ryan sent his football team home early from workouts Tuesday after learning a family friend of a player could have contracted covid-19.
Penn Hills hires former Seton Hill star Chris Giles as boys basketball coach
June 29, 2020
When Chris Giles found out he would be Penn Hills’ new boys basketball coach, he immediately shared the news with the coach he was hired to replace.
Trib HSSN boys athlete of the year: Pine-Richland’s Spencer transforms from star QB to champion wrestler
It’s not uncommon for Pine-Richland’s Cole Spencer to be heavier in the fall than in the winter, a transformation that takes him from standout quarterback to champion wrestler.
Trib HSSN looks back at the top high school sports stories of the 2019-20 school year
11.1.19
Report: West A’s Austin Hendrick signs $4 million contract with Cincinnati Reds
June 26, 2020
Former West Allegheny star Austin Hendrick signed with the Cincinnati Reds on Friday.
Canon-McMillan girls soccer coach David Derrico resigns after 2 decades
Canon-McMillan girls soccer coach David Derrico, who won a state title with the Big Macs, resigned this week after two decades with the team.
Sto-Rox hires football coach LaRoi Johnson as AD, opens coaching jobs
June 25, 2020
The Sto-Rox school board hired football coach LaRoi Johnson as athletic director Thursday night and voted to hand him a clean slate of coaches.
Wanting to keep family close, Justin Walther accepts Winchester Thurston basketball job
While searching for a boys basketball job, coach Justin Walther wanted a high school that would treat him like family, but just as importantly, a place he could share with his family.
Aliquippa seeks applicants to replace boys basketball coach Dwight Hines
The Aliquippa school board is accepting applications for a new boys basketball coach, a decision that stunned coach Dwight Hines, whose tenure appears to be over.
Serra Catholic hires A.J. Corso as boys basketball coach
Serra Catholic hired A.J. Corso to take over the boys basketball team, the school announced Thursday.
Radio station. Food truck. Dance studio? Jamal Woodson’s energy earns him Baldwin basketball job
June 24, 2020
Jamal Woodson isn’t wrong when he says he’s got an energetic personality.
2 Pa. football teams, 1 from WPIAL make MaxPreps preseason Top 100 rankings
June 23, 2020
Defending WPIAL champion Central Catholic was one of two Pennsylvania football teams ranked in the MaxPreps preseason Top 100.
Pine-Richland hires assistant Bob Petcash as boys basketball coach
June 22, 2020
Pine-Richland stayed in-house Monday night and hired assistant Bob Petcash as its new boys basketball coach.
WPIAL connections lead Gateway defensive back Shane Thrift to Delaware
Shane Thrift hasn’t visited Delaware’s campus yet, but he’s confident he’ll feel comfortable there.
Pine-Richland’s Miguel Jackson identifies 9 finalists, wants to visit every campus
Pine-Richland defensive lineman Miguel Jackson set out to pick eight finalists from his list of 30 college offers, but that task proved harder than expected.
Montour’s Jaiden Hill sticks with 1st Division I offer, commits to Liberty
June 21, 2020
Jaiden Hill’s first offer turned out to be his favorite.
Q&A with new WPIAL executive director Amy Scheuneman: Will there be fall sports?
June 20, 2020
As Amy Scheuneman points out, there was no coronavirus pandemic when she agreed to become the WPIAL executive director. While that’s true, she’s certainly not running from the challenge.
Noel Roach commits to Akron after talks with former Penn Hills teammate
June 19, 2020
Noel Roach couldn’t visit Akron’s campus, so the Penn Hills senior found other ways to learn about the school and its football program.
WPIAL plans Diversity Advisory Council to better represent minority communities
The WPIAL soon could have a Diversity Advisory Council, created to give a louder voice to the challenges faced by minority communities.
WPIAL eliminates football, basketball pairings meetings in cost-cutting move
June 18, 2020
The longstanding WPIAL playoff tradition that drew football and basketball coaches to a crowded hotel conference room is ending.
PIAA could rewrite co-op rule, making combined teams easier for schools
June 16, 2020
The PIAA could rewrite its co-op rule this summer, making it easier for two schools to form a combined sports team.
Woodland Hills leads WPIAL football back to practice with workouts ‘normal as any other’
Woodland Hills football coach Tim Bostard checked every player’s temperature and nobody was allowed to shake hands.
PIAA approves state football brackets; WPIAL can finalize its playoff plans
June 15, 2020
The PIAA approved state tournament brackets for all sports except basketball Monday, meaning the WPIAL soon can finalize plans for its football playoffs and championship games.
PIAA adopts 2-game suspension for unsportsmanlike actions including ‘racially insensitive comments’
The PIAA strengthened its stance against “ethnic and racially insensitive comments” by making those and other unsportsmanlike actions punishable with a two-game suspension.
Serra baseball star Mark Black commits to juco that produced Jose Bautista, Russell Martin
June 14, 2020
Serra Catholic baseball star Mark Black had his future mapped out way in advance, committing to St. John’s before his sophomore year, until the coronavirus pandemic turned the world upside down.
Pine-Richland defensive lineman Miguel Jackson adds 3 more Division I offers
Pine-Richland defensive lineman Miguel Jackson added three more Division I offers this week, pushing his overall total to about 30.
2-game suspension for foul language, physical contact among items on PIAA agenda Monday
The PIAA could give final approval Monday to a rule change that lets game officials issue a two-game suspensions to coaches and players who cross the line with foul language or make physical contact.
Big 33 plans ‘watch party’ to celebrate players chosen for canceled all-star game
The covid-19 pandemic forced organizers to cancel the Big 33 Football Classic, but this year’s players will be honored online.
PIAA reveals tentative state basketball brackets for 2021, ’22 postseasons
June 13, 2020
The WPIAL will send only four Class 6A boys basketball teams to the state playoffs next season, according to preliminary brackets revealed by the PIAA.
Freshman-year visit leads Sto-Rox linebacker Diontae Givens to Duquesne
June 12, 2020
As a freshman, Diontae Givens tagged along with Sto-Rox football teammates for an unofficial recruiting visit to Duquesne.
West Allegheny’s Austin Hendrick selected 12th overall by Cincinnati Reds in MLB Draft
June 10, 2020
With a quick left-handed swing that packs plenty of pop, West Allegheny’s Austin Hendrick was naturally a Ken Griffey Jr. fan as a kid.
State releases covid-19 guidelines for restarting PIAA sports
Gov. Tom Wolf released covid-19 guidelines for restarting PIAA sports Wednesday, clearing the way for high school sports teams statewide to begin offseason workouts.
Will Austin Hendrick trade West Allegheny red for Cincinnati Reds in MLB draft?
June 9, 2020
Hot dogs with Skyline Chili and evenings at Great American Ball Park could be in Austin Hendrick’s future, if draft experts are correct.
Football coach Ryan Matsook returning to sidelines at Western Beaver
June 8, 2020
At Western Beaver, Ryan Matsook’s work duties already include assistant principal and athletic director.
Gov. Wolf: State will release covid-19 guidelines for PIAA in ‘next day or two’
The wait is almost over.
‘Position-less basketball’ draws Penn Hills’ A’Lysa Sledge to UMass Lowell
June 7, 2020
A’Lysa Sledge owns point guard skills and the size of a forward, a combination that lets her play every position on the floor for Penn Hills.
Indiana rising sophomore Eve Fiala draws Pitt basketball offer
Indiana’s Eve Fiala, who’s part of a talented 2023 WPIAL basketball class, added a scholarship offer Saturday from Pitt.
Sports might return sooner if schools prepare covid-19 plans now, PIAA says
June 5, 2020
The PIAA wants schools to use this downtime wisely.
Quaker Valley’s Bailey Garbee commits to American, turns teammates into rivals
Quaker Valley basketball teammates Bailey Garbee and Corinne Washington made college commitments this spring to separate schools, but they’ll still see one another at least a couple of times a year.
Covid-19 guidelines for PIAA sports won’t be ready this week
June 4, 2020
Athletes, coaches and high school administrators are growing impatient as more counties turn green, but they won’t see return-to-play guidelines for covid-19 until at least next week, according to a spokesman for the Pa. Department of Education.
Who were the PIAA football teams of the decade? MaxPreps ranks the Top 20
The most dominant high school football team in the state last decade wasn’t from Western Pennsylvania, but six WPIAL programs did make the list.
‘Sadness’ for athletes, coaches and alumni as Quigley Catholic closes doors
June 3, 2020
Where’s the rest of your team?
Kiski Area planning for fall sports season despite distance learning decision
Kiski Area’s superintendent announced plans to start next school year online, an approach other districts may adopt, but that doesn’t mean sports are canceled.
4 unanswered questions about PIAA sports, covid-19
June 2, 2020
Here are a few unanswered questions regarding PIAA sports and covid-19:
Penn State eliminated as Peters Township’s McMillon reveals Top 5
June 1, 2020
Peters Township junior Donovan McMillon eliminated Pitt and West Virginia a month ago, and now Penn State also disappeared from his list of college football destinations.
Iowa becomes 1st state to resume high school sports with baseball, softball
While Pennsylvania debates the future of fall sports, Monday was the first day of baseball and softball season for high schools in Iowa.
Will June be busy or quiet for 2021 WPIAL football recruits?
May 31, 2020
June can be a busy month for college football commitments, but will this year be different?
Concern about unsanctioned workouts grows as PIAA awaits guidelines from governor
May 29, 2020
Lawrence County has an abundance of grassy fields, without hash marks or end zones, and there’s probably kids throwing a football around on one.
Canon-Mac lineman Connor McMahon commits to ‘perfect school’ for hard work
May 28, 2020
Connor McMahon received a Naval Academy football offer on Memorial Day weekend and the timing didn’t go unnoticed by the Canon-McMillon junior.
PIAA in ‘holding pattern’ waiting for more information from governor
May 27, 2020
School districts in Lawrence and more than a dozen other Pennsylvania counties will soon enter the green phase, but the PIAA remains in a “holding pattern” waiting to hear what that means for high school sports.
Miniature Wash High gym showcases ‘underground hobby’ of paper stadiums
Trey Ashby never set foot inside Wash High’s basketball gym, but the Nebraska resident can describe the banners on the wall, the paint colors on the floor and the wooden seats that give the place its character.
WPIAL reveals 2021 baseball schedules with ‘long overdue’ 2-game section series
May 26, 2020
If a section opponent had a star pitcher, West Allegheny baseball coach Bryan Cornell always assumed his team would face him twice.
PIAA approves new classifications, divisions for competitive spirit
May 24, 2020
Competitive spirit, which became a PIAA sport eight years ago, will see some changes next season.
As Lawrence County transitions to green, football coaches eager to start workouts
May 22, 2020
Lawrence County is about to turn green, but the battery icon on Joe Cowart’s cell phone was trending toward red.
WPIAL reveals section schedules for 2020-21 basketball season
In WPIAL boys basketball, Butler vs. Pine-Richland has become one of the hottest section rivalries, with overtime finishes and single-digit margins driving up the drama.
Foul language, physical contact would earn 2-game suspension under PIAA proposal
May 21, 2020
The use of foul and vulgar language or physical contact with a PIAA game official, coach or opponent could become a two-game suspension for high school athletes and coaches.
PIAA board refers wrestling weight-class reduction to medical committee
The PIAA board referred a proposal to reduce wrestling weight classes to the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee for discussion.
PIAA denies Lincoln Park appeal, forces boys basketball team to Class 4A
May 20, 2020
The Lincoln Park boys basketball team must move to Class 4A next season after the PIAA denied its final appeal Wednesday.
New coach Dan DeRose wants to win North Allegheny’s first WPIAL boys basketball title
North Allegheny has never won a WPIAL boys basketball title.
PIAA not ready to endorse NFHS guidelines for reopening high school athletics
The PIAA isn’t ready to endorse the return-to-sports guidelines issued Tuesday by the National Federation of State High School Associations.
PIAA board says some teams may resume workouts next month, if governor approves
The PIAA board of directors unanimously supports a county-by-county approach to restarting high school sports, once the governor gives his approval.
National association issues detailed guide for reopening high school athletics
May 19, 2020
Players shouldn’t pass a basketball, hand off a football or share a baseball bat when high school sports workouts first resume, according to guidelines revealed Tuesday by the National Federation of State High School Associations.
WPIAL adopts 2-game series for section baseball schedules, reveals realignment
May 18, 2020
The WPIAL adopted a revamped baseball schedule Monday meant to keep teams from pitching their ace twice against the same section opponent.
North Allegheny expected to hire Dan DeRose as boys basketball coach
Another high-profile WPIAL basketball coach is expected to switch schools this week.
PIAA board of directors to discuss restarting sports county by county
Could the PIAA take a county-by-county approach to restarting sports, or should the entire state resume summer workouts at the same time?
Dek hockey athleticism earns North Hills lineman 1st college football offer
May 17, 2020
At 6-foot-5 and around 230 pounds, North Hills’ Matt Hummel is bigger than most dek hockey players.
Air Force Academy football makes recruiting push into Western Pa.
Two military service academies have successfully recruited Western Pennsylvania football players for years. Combined, Army and Navy had seven former WPIAL athletes on their rosters last fall.
Pine-Richland’s Luke Miller wastes no time making commitment to Kent State
May 16, 2020
Pine-Richland junior Luke Miller didn’t need long to decide.
Thomas Jefferson linebacker Preston Zandier commits to Youngstown State
Not often does a university president get involved in football recruiting, but these are unusual times.
Trinity junior Courtney Dahlquist adds 2 college basketball offers
May 15, 2020
Trinity junior Courtney Dahlquist, who saw her season cut short by the coronavirus outbreak, added two college offers this week.
Coronavirus pandemic speeds up recruiting for Western Pa. Bruins girls basketball players
May 14, 2020
If this were any other spring, Corinne Washington would be traveling to Detroit this weekend with her Western Pa. Bruins teammates for an AAU basketball tournament in the Motor City.
WPIAL reveals new basketball sections for 2020-21 season
May 12, 2020
Central Catholic coach Brian Urso will use this stay-at-home time to binge watch some game film. He spent his first season at Central learning all about the boys basketball teams to the north and now will study Westmoreland County.
NFHS votes down shot clock mandate for high school basketball
May 11, 2020
High school teams can still hold the basketball for as long as they’d like.
Lincoln Park wants PIAA to define ‘participation’ in competitive-balance rule
Lincoln Park athletic director Mike Bariski is curious about the PIAA’s definition of the word “participation.”
PIAA won’t force Chartiers Valley, North Catholic girls into higher classifications
The Chartiers Valley and North Catholic girls basketball teams won’t be forced into a higher classification next season, the PIAA told the schools Monday.
North Allegheny’s Nathan Hoke adds 2 more Division I football offers
May 10, 2020
North Allegheny junior Nathan Hoke, the son of a former Steelers defensive lineman, added two more football teams to his growing list of Division I offers.
7 schools file PIAA appeal contesting competitive-balance rule promotion
May 9, 2020
Seven schools statewide, including three from the WPIAL, filed appeals this week with the PIAA, all hoping their basketball teams can avoid being promoted by the competitive-balance rule.
Baldwin fires girls coach Kyle DeGregorio after defeating state’s top-ranked basketball team
May 8, 2020
Exactly two months after Baldwin’s girls basketball team upset the No. 1-ranked team in the state, coach Kyle DeGregorio lost his job.
Justin Walther resigns at Serra Catholic, seeks big-school basketball job
If you’re a big-school athletic director, Justin Walther would like to talk.
Basketball coach Bill Sacco retires after 18 seasons at Cornell
May 7, 2020
Bill Sacco had already retired from teaching and coaching when he noticed Cornell was hiring a boys basketball coach and decided to apply.
WPIAL board member, retired school administrator Enrico Antonini dies
Enrico “Rego” Antonini, a member of the WPIAL board of directors and a retired Beaver County school administrator, died Tuesday. He was 81.
Baldwin hires 5-time WPIAL champion Jeff Ackermann as boys basketball coach
May 6, 2020
Until this week, Jeff Ackermann coached basketball at Pine-Richland, lived in South Fayette and taught at Chartiers Valley, a commute that saw him and his family crisscross the county.
PIAA forcing 3 WPIAL basketball teams into higher classification, pending appeal
May 5, 2020
Three WPIAL basketball teams will be forced to play in a higher classification next season unless those schools can win a PIAA appeal.
Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame postpones induction banquet to 2021
May 4, 2020
The Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame induction banquet will be postponed until next year, organizers announced Monday, in response to the covid-19 outbreak.
Could coach Jeff Ackermann turn around another basketball program in Baldwin?
Baldwin’s boys basketball team hasn’t won a WPIAL playoff game since 2003. The Highlanders reached the postseason only four times in the 17 years since, with four first-round losses.
Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington commits to Boston University
May 3, 2020
There’s a third Division I basketball player in the Washington household.
Woodland Hills’ Peyton Pinkney commits to Eastern Michigan after virtual tour
May 2, 2020
Woodland Hills junior Peyton Pinkney took a tour of Eastern Michigan’s campus last week and never left her home.
Central Catholic football coaches deliver WPIAL championship rings door to door
What’s better than one WPIAL ring ceremony? How about 23?
Butler’s Ethan Morton named Player of the Year in Class 6A all-state voting
Butler’s Ethan Morton’s quest for a PIAA basketball title was cut short, but the senior earned statewide recognition Saturday as the state’s Class 6A Player of the Year in a vote of Pennsylvania sports writers.
Hotly recruited Peters Township safety Donovan McMillon names Top 10 list
May 1, 2020
Peters Township junior Donovan McMillon, who’s quickly become the WPIAL’s hottest football recruit, announced a top 10 list Friday that included Penn State but not Pitt or West Virginia.
Bethel Park’s Liv Westphal commits to Duquesne
Three years ago, Bethel Park’s Liv Westphal and her family took an unofficial recruiting visit to Duquesne before her freshman year of high school.
Mars’ Michael Carmody, Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher earn all-state honors in Class 5A boys basketball
Mars’ Michael Carmody and Laurel Highlands’ Rodney Gallagher, whose teams clashed in the WPIAL boys basketball finals, were named first-team all-state Friday.
‘Size doesn’t matter’ as South Fayette’s Charley Rossi adds first Division I offer
April 30, 2020
Charley Rossi took a break from helping his dad clean out the garage Monday to return a phone call to a college football coach.
WPIAL lands 2 players on Class 4A boys basketball all-state team
Highlands’ Johnny Crise and Central Valley’s Isiah Warfield will play different sports in college, but right now they’re both all-state basketball players.
North Catholic’s DeGregorios share all-state honors in Class 3A boys basketball
April 29, 2020
Two months after celebrating a WPIAL basketball title, North Catholic’s Dave and Isaac DeGregorio are sharing some statewide recognition.
WPIAL approves new basketball sections; won’t reveal them yet
April 28, 2020
Basketball sections for next season are almost ready, but WPIAL players, coaches and fans must wait a little longer to see them.
All-state boys basketball: OLSH’s DiMichele, Spadafora, Rodriguez lead Class 2A team
OLSH junior Dante Spadafora and sophomore Jake DiMichele earned first-team all-state honors Tuesday, and the Chargers’ Mike Rodriguez was named the state’s top coach in Class 2A.
PIAA shouldn’t enforce competitive-balance rule, Lincoln Park basketball coach says
April 27, 2020
If the PIAA competitive-balance rule forces the Lincoln Park boys basketball team into a higher classification next season, coach Mike Bariski thinks that’s unfair.
All-state boys basketball: Cornell’s Kaden DiVito named Player of the Year in Class A
Cornell’s Kaden DiVito, who saw his senior season cut short two wins away from the PIAA finals, earned statewide recognition Monday as the Class A boys basketball player of the year.
Moon sophomore Reilly Sunday adds 5 Division I offers since late March
April 26, 2020
Social distancing hasn’t kept basketball scholarship offers away from Moon’s Reilly Sunday.
Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington adds Duquesne scholarship offer
Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington, one of the WPIAL’s top juniors, added a scholarship offer Saturday from Duquesne women’s basketball coach Dan Burt.
Jeannette to pay sports officials despite cancellation of spring sports season
April 25, 2020
The PIAA canceled spring sports across the state, but Jeannette School District still will pay the officials scheduled to work its games.
WPIAL football has NFL draft streak that’s more than 2 decades long
April 23, 2020
The WPIAL has had at least one former player picked each year in the NFL draft since 1994, a remarkable streak that could be extended again this week.
Upper St. Clair football coach Jim Render among 12 selected for Pa. Sports Hall of Fame
Former Upper St. Clair football coach Jim Render, who retired last summer with the most wins in WPIAL history, was among 12 individuals chosen for induction into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame this fall.
All-state girls basketball: Ellis’ Natalie Jasper, Canevin’s Diajha Allen receive Class 2A honors
April 22, 2020
Ellis School junior Natalie Jasper and Bishop Canevin senior Diajha Allen, who led their teams deep into the playoffs, earned all-state honors Wednesday in Class 2A girls basketball.
All-state girls basketball: Rochester teammates share statewide honors in Class A
Rochester teammates Alexis Robison and Corynne Hauser, who repeated as WPIAL girls basketball champions, drew statewide recognition Wednesday by earning all-state honors in Class A.
All-state girls basketball: Mohawk’s Karly McCutcheon, Carlynton’s Jada Lee honored in Class 3A
April 21, 2020
Mohawk’s Karly McCutcheon and Carlynton’s Jada Lee, whose girls basketball teams met twice in the playoffs this winter, each earned all-state honors Tuesday in Class 3A.
All-state girls basketball: North Catholic’s Tess Myers, Kylee Lewandowski among 6 WPIAL players selected in 4A
North Catholic teammates Tess Myers and Kylee Lewandowski, who extended their team’s WPIAL title streak to four, shared first-team all-state girls basketball honors Tuesday in Class 4A.
Beaver Falls RB/LB Josh Hough commits to Syracuse
April 20, 2020
Beaver Falls junior Josh Hough, who saw his recruiting stock rise quickly in recent months, committed Monday to Syracuse.
Horse or no horse, Penn Hills football schedules scrimmage at Aliquippa
Jon LeDonne is taking his Penn Hills football team to Aliquippa to scrimmage at his alma mater’s stadium this fall.
Peters Township hires new coaches for boys, girls basketball teams
Peters Township filled two vacant coaching jobs Monday night by hiring Joe Urmann to lead the boys basketball team and Bob Miles to lead the girls.
All-state girls basketball: 8 WPIAL players, coach Tim McConnell earn statewide honors in 5A
Chartiers Valley teammates Aislin Malcolm and Megan McConnell earned first-team all-state honors along with Gateway’s Lexi Jackson as WPIAL girls basketball players dominated the statewide Class 5A vote Monday.
All-state girls basketball: NA’s Lizzy Groetsch, Spencer Stefko lead WPIAL’s 6A selections
North Allegheny junior Lizzy Groetsch and coach Spencer Stefko saw their PIAA girls basketball title hopes dashed by the coronavirus outbreak, but both earned statewide recognition Monday.
100 years ago, Pa. held its 1st state basketball tournament, but anniversary celebration on hold
March 19, 2020
Two thousand fans came to the Armory in State College to watch the first state basketball tournament in Pennsylvania high school history, a historic event from exactly 100 years ago.
Coronavirus outbreak could leave 6-figure dent in WPIAL budget
March 18, 2020
The coronavirus outbreak already has spring sports on hold indefinitely, but the WPIAL is bracing for off-the-field impacts as well from the unfolding pandemic.
Union lineman Aaron Gunn commits to Louisville
March 17, 2020
Union junior Aaron Gunn, one of the WPIAL’s top linemen, committed Tuesday to Louisville.
PIAA suspends chapter meetings for game officials until state reopens schools
The PIAA Officials Council has suspended all chapter meetings until Gov. Tom Wolf reopens schools, the PIAA announced in an email to Pennsylvania high school sports officials.
Former Baldwin AD Vince Sortino joining WPIAL administration as assistant to executive director
March 16, 2020
Former Baldwin athletic director Vince Sortino is returning to the WPIAL.
No guarantee spring sports are played, but WPIAL discusses ‘what if’ scenarios
The WPIAL board discussed contingency plans for spring sports season behind closed doors Monday, but “anything at this point is uncertain,” associate executive director Amy Scheuneman said.
Future of spring sports season will be considered Monday by WPIAL board
March 13, 2020
The PIAA already postponed the end of winter sports season, but now spring sports might also be in danger.
Caught in limbo, WPIAL basketball teams wonder if delay turns into cancellation
Along with coaching basketball, Spencer Stefko teaches world cultures at North Allegheny, a job that has him studying the effects of a viral pandemic.
PIAA suspends basketball tournament, swimming championships for 2 weeks
March 12, 2020
The PIAA will reassess the coronavirus situation in two weeks, said executive director Bob Lombardi, and decide then whether to resume the winter sports championships.
Butler completes another crazy comeback, defeats Upper St. Clair in PIAA 2nd round
March 11, 2020
The question on everybody’s mind this week in Butler was: How is Ethan Morton’s injured ankle?
North Allegheny bans spectators from athletics events as coronavirus precaution
In response to coronavirus concerns, North Allegheny will ban spectators from attending all home sporting events until April 13, the school district decided Wednesday.
Girls basketball sites, times: North Allegheny, Bethel Park travel to Bellefonte for PIAA quarterfinals
WPIAL finalists North Allegheny and Bethel Park will play on the same floor Friday night, one after the other as part of a PIAA girls basketball doubleheader at Bald Eagle in Bellefonte.
Boys basketball sites, times: PIAA schedules quarterfinal doubleheader at Hempfield
The PIAA scheduled a boys basketball quarterfinal doubleheader Friday night at Hempfield involving two WPIAL Class A teams.
Mt. Lebanon says it won’t play PIAA tournament game vs. Eastern Pa. team because of coronavirus
Mt. Lebanon School District administrators, concerned about coronavirus, informed the PIAA that its boys basketball team wouldn’t participate in Wednesday night’s playoff game against Eastern Pa. opponent Cheltenham.
Scheduled to close, Vincentian Academy ends basketball season with emotional PIAA loss
This was the teary-eyed postgame talk that coach Tim Tyree dreaded, one that he and his Vincentian Academy players tried to delay for as long as possible.
‘Most spectators’ barred from Ohio high school events over coronavirus concerns; Conn. cancels tournaments
March 10, 2020
Facing concerns about coronavirus, state high school associations across the country are deciding whether to alter their postseason plans.
PIAA moves Butler-Upper St. Clair boys basketball game to Robert Morris
The PIAA has relocated the boys basketball playoff game between Butler and Upper St. Clair to Robert Morris’s UPMC Events Center.
PIAA says skip handshakes, but championships still on schedule despite coronavirus concerns
March 9, 2020
Elbow bumps could replace handshakes.
3 WPIAL indoor track athletes earn 1st-team PTFCA all-state honors
March 8, 2020
Indiana’s Kendall Branan, North Allegheny’s Casey Burton and Shaler’s Cam Mbalo earned first-team all-state indoor track honors from the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.
PIAA announces sites, times for 2nd-round girls basketball games
The PIAA announced sites and times for second-round basketball playoff games Sunday.
PIAA announces sites, times for 2nd-round boys basketball games
The PIAA announced sites and times for second-round basketball playoff games Sunday.
Lincoln Park’s Andre Wilder delays knee surgery with PIAA 1st-round win
March 7, 2020
Andre Wilder is trying to postpone knee surgery one win at a time.
Back from injury, Josh Russell’s 3-pointers lift USC over Allderdice in PIAA 1st round
Upper St. Clair’s unofficial team motto was: “Let’s get Russ in uniform one more time.”
Sean Snead’s 3-pointers lead Obama past Penn Hills in PIAA 1st round
March 6, 2020
A first-half shot can’t be called a game-winner, especially one that only ties the score, but the energy from Sean Snead’s buzzer-beating 3-pointer was felt long after halftime.
WPIAL accepts apology, reduces suspension for Mars’ Michael Carmody
March 5, 2020
The WPIAL accepted senior Michael Carmody’s apology and reduced his suspension to one game, Mars athletic director Scott Heinauer said Thursday.
Mars’ Michael Carmody ‘remorseful, apologetic’ for WPIAL championship actions
March 4, 2020
Michael Carmody came to Green Tree on Wednesday asking for his two-game suspension to be reduced, but first he was there to apologize, said his father, Mars basketball coach Rob Carmody.
Mars’ Michael Carmody faces 2-game suspension for WPIAL championship actions
March 2, 2020
Mars senior Michael Carmody, one of Western Pennsylvania’s top athletes, faces a possible two-game WPIAL suspension for his actions in the Class 5A boys basketball championship.
3 WPIAL track athletes win state titles at PTFCA indoor championship
Indiana senior Kendall Branan was one of three WPIAL track athletes who won state titles Sunday at the PTFCA indoor championship at Penn State.
PIAA girls basketball sites, times for 1st-round games
March 1, 2020
The PIAA announced sites and times for first-round playoff basketball games.
PIAA announces boys basketball sites, times for 1st-round games
The PIAA announced sites and times for first-round playoff basketball games.
Butler tops Mt. Lebanon for WPIAL Class 6A title, team’s 1st since 1991
February 29, 2020
Ethan Morton waited four years for this celebration, but he had tears in his eyes knowing that his coach and his hometown had waited far longer.
Butler, Mt. Lebanon are familiar foes in WPIAL Class 6A championship rematch
Butler was in the locker room getting ready for its semifinal at Robert Morris’ new arena, but senior Ethan Morton tried to catch a little of Mt. Lebanon’s game ahead of theirs.
Star freshman Rodney Gallagher leads Laurel Highlands past Mars in WPIAL Class 5A thriller
February 28, 2020
There are 131,504 residents in Fayette County, and Rodney Gallagher might’ve hugged them all Friday night.
Mars’ Carmody, Laurel Highlands’ Gallagher share spotlight in WPIAL 5A final
One is a 290-pound senior signed to play football at Notre Dame. The other is a 150-pound freshman with Division I basketball offers.
North Catholic upends two-time defending champ Lincoln Park in Class 3A title game
February 27, 2020
Isaac DeGregorio sensed that the run was coming.
North Catholic seeks better shooting night in championship rematch with Lincoln Park
Nearly a year after the loss, North Catholic coach Dave DeGregorio forced himself to watch the video of his team’s WPIAL championship.
Butler rallies past USC in overtime, earns return trip to WPIAL finals
February 26, 2020
Doubt crept into Ethan Morton’s mind for a moment Wednesday night as Butler trailed by five with less than a minute left.
Mars’ Michael Carmody flexes muscles against Chartiers Valley, returns to WPIAL finals
February 25, 2020
Michael Carmody has already won two WPIAL basketball championships and contributed to both, but the Mars senior wasn’t responsible for leading the Planets to Petersen Events Center either time.
Baldwin assistant hired as Bishop Canevin’s 4th football coach in 4 years
Bishop Canevin has hired former Baldwin assistant Richard Johnson as football coach, the school announced Tuesday.
Lincoln Park earns 5th straight trip to WPIAL finals with whistle-heavy win over Aliquippa
February 24, 2020
Nobody wanted 56 fouls called, but nobody was too surprised, either.
WPIAL announces sites, times for basketball semifinals
February 23, 2020
The UPMC Events Center at Robert Morris will host a WPIAL basketball playoff doubleheader Wednesday.
Mt. Lebanon’s Patrick Anderson among nation’s best after TSTCA Indoor Championship
Mt. Lebanon senior Patrick Anderson ran one of the fastest 3,000-meter times in the nation this season at the TSTCA Indoor Championship Saturday at Edinboro.
Strong 2nd half carries Upper St. Clair past Pine-Richland, into semifinals
February 22, 2020
Maybe it is the team’s gritty style. Maybe it is coaching adjustments, or maybe it is just the names on the roster.
Laurel Highlands scores with 3.5 seconds left, stuns No. 1 Penn Hills in WPIAL quarterfinals
February 21, 2020
Laurel Highlands coach Rick Hauger called for a timeout, but the crowd was still raucous from Penn Hills’ game-tying 3-pointer.
South Allegheny uses buzzer-beater to defeat Beaver Falls, reach WPIAL semifinals
February 20, 2020
Bryce Epps wasn’t having his best shooting night, but suddenly a loose ball was at his feet.
West Allegheny hires Dave Schoppe as football coach
West Allegheny looked to its past to find its future head football coach.
Sheldon Cox leads New Castle to WPIAL 1st-round win against Mt. Pleasant
February 19, 2020
If he could’ve changed anything, Mt. Pleasant coach Allan Bilinskyh would’ve picked a gym with tighter rims.
22 WPIAL football players selected for PSFCA East-West Game
Two WPIAL quarterbacks, Seneca Valley’s Gabe Lawson and Baldwin’s Mason Stahl, were chosen to lead the West all-stars in the PSFCA East-West Game on Memorial Day weekend.
Senior-led Bethel Park tops North Allegheny, celebrates 1st playoff win since 2016
The similarities to two years ago had crossed their minds — same gym, same playoff round — but Bethel Park’s seniors made sure the similarities ended there.
WPIAL approves section alignments for winter sports, basketball must wait
February 18, 2020
The WPIAL released updated sections for some winter sports, but basketball won’t be ready for awhile.
WPIAL approves site, schedule change for cross country championships
February 17, 2020
The WPIAL cross country championships will return to Cal (Pa.) next fall with an overhaul to the race schedule.
WPIAL wrestling realignment takes geographical approach
The WPIAL board approved new wrestling sections Monday based more on geography and less on competitive balance.
North Allegheny’s Casey Burton holds No. 1 spot in state long jump rankings
North Allegheny’s Casey Burton ranks first in the state in girls long jump after winning the TSTCA indoor meet Saturday in Edinboro.
Chartiers Valley sophomore Aislin Malcolm receives Princeton offer
Chartiers Valley sophomore Aislin Malcolm, who hasn’t lost a game in two seasons, announced a college basketball offer Sunday from Princeton.
Peters Township safety Donovan McMillon announces Penn State offer
February 16, 2020
Add Penn State’s James Franklin to the growing list of college football coaches hoping to recruit Peters Township junior Donovan McMillon.
North Allegheny junior Khalil Dinkins adds Penn State offer
The college options for North Allegheny’s Khalil Dinkins jumped significantly this month with scholarship offers from Penn State and Michigan.
Dwindling number of high school officials part of troubling nationwide trend
February 15, 2020
As a high school basketball official in his early 20s, Joe Strednak wasn’t much older than the athletes on the court. Occasionally, someone would test his poise as the youngest ref on his crew.
WPIAL’s 2nd-leading scorer exits early as Aliquippa defense stops Steel Valley
Aliquippa had a strategy for facing the WPIAL’s second-leading scorer: Trap Steel Valley’s Camden Polak whenever he touched the ball, keep it out of his hands if possible and make him work for every shot.
10 WPIAL players selected for Big 33 Football Classic
February 12, 2020
Thomas Jefferson teammates Logan Danielson and Mac Duda were among 10 WPIAL players selected Wednesday for the Big 33 Football Classic.
WPIAL seeds Fox Chapel above Upper St. Clair despite late-season loss
February 11, 2020
More than two dozen times, Upper St. Clair coach Danny Holzer has traveled to Green Tree to see the boys basketball playoff brackets revealed.
Breaking down the 2020 WPIAL boys basketball playoffs
Here is a breakdown of the 2020 WPIAL boys basketball playoffs:
Football coach Loran Cooley leaves Baldwin after 3 years for college job
February 10, 2020
Loran Cooley wants to become a full-time football coach once he retires as a Pennsylvania state trooper, a transition that’s not too far in the future.
WPIAL bracketology: Chris Harlan, Don Rebel predict 2020 boys basketball playoff pairings
February 9, 2020
It’s that time of year, WPIAL bracketology 2020.
Pine-Richland schedules Week Zero football game in New Jersey
Twice, Pine-Richland’s football team used Week Zero to play out-of-state opponents from Ohio, and once the team faced a school from Florida.
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 8, 2020
February 8, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 8, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Western Pa.’s top 10 football prospects for the Class of 2021
February 5, 2020
If you wanted to spot some of the top college football coaches in the country, there was no need to fly to Clemson, S.C., or Ann Arbor, Mich.
WPIAL football recruits make commitments official on signing day
The addition of an early signing period in December has reduced the number of Division I recruits using the traditional early-February date, but a handful of WPIAL football seniors waited it out.
Quaker Valley defeats Blackhawk, creates 1st-place tie in unpredictable Section 2
February 4, 2020
The WPIAL’s wildest section won’t tame easily.
WPIAL approves 2 GCC transfers; Bailey Kuhns remains ineligible for basketball playoffs
February 3, 2020
Girls basketball standout Bailey Kuhns is immediately eligible to join Greensburg Central Catholic’s lineup, but the sophomore won’t be allowed to take part in the upcoming playoffs.
WPIAL finds no evidence of racial taunts in Leechburg-Propel Andrew Street game
The WPIAL found no evidence a Propel Andrew Street boys basketball coach was the target of racial taunts during a game last month, but Leechburg will take proactive steps anyway.
WPIAL to hold hearing for Leechburg basketball game, Greensburg CC transfers
February 2, 2020
The WPIAL wants to know why the Propel Andrew Street vs. Leechburg boys basketball game was cut short Jan. 17 and whether anyone in attendance used racially charged taunts.
Trib HSSN WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 1, 2020
February 1, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Feb. 1, 2020
WPIAL rankings
WPIAL releases football schedules for 2020 season
January 30, 2020
The loudest complaints from WPIAL football teams were about travel and blowouts.
Central Valley trio announces 1st FBS offers from same MAC school
January 29, 2020
Central Valley teammates Ameer Dudley, Stephon Hall and Myles Walker celebrated a WPIAL football championship last fall at Heinz Field.
Gateway wideout Chamor Price adds 9th FBS offer this month
Gateway wideout Chamor Price had a breakout season last year and college coaches have taken notice.
PIAA rejects Quaker Valley wrestler Hunter Robison’s request to compete in postseason
Quaker Valley transfer Hunter Robison’s hopes to wrestle this season were dashed by the PIAA.
Butler clinches 1st boys basketball section title since 1992
January 28, 2020
Basketball coach Matt Clement was a junior on the team’s roster the last time Butler won a section title, but he watched Tuesday night as that 28-year wait finally ended.
Two-way Gateway football standout Tui Brown commits to UConn
Gateway senior Tui Brown, a two-way standout for the WPIAL champion, committed Sunday to UConn.
Thomas Jefferson’s Shane Stump commits to Duquesne
January 27, 2020
Thomas Jefferson’s Shane Stump, who led the Jaguars to undefeated WPIAL and PIAA football titles, committed Monday to Duquesne.
Colgate football adds another recruit from Mt. Lebanon
Mt. Lebanon senior Evan Jones, an all-conference running back for the Blue Devils, announced his commitment Sunday to Colgate.
PIAA considers significant change for football heat acclimatization week
January 26, 2020
Heat acclimatization week might become a little more eventful for PIAA football teams.
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 25, 2020
January 25, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 25, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Former WPIAL star recruits Montour lineman George Padezanin to Lehigh
Montour lineman George Padezanin committed Saturday to Lehigh, recruited to the Patriot League school by a former WPIAL football standout.
WPIAL, Philadelphia-area football teams separated under PIAA playoff proposal
January 22, 2020
MECHANICSBURG — The PIAA might move Pittsburgh and Philadelphia a little farther apart.
Aliquippa drops PIAA appeal, accepts promotion to Class 4A football
MECHANICSBURG — Aliquippa accepted its football team’s fate Wednesday and the school ended efforts to stay in Class 3A.
Quaker Valley transfer Hunter Robison remains ineligible to wrestle this season
January 21, 2020
Quaker Valley wrestler Hunter Robison, a talented midseason transfer from General McLane, might not suit up for the Quakers this season.
WPIAL rules GCC transfers Bailey Kuhns, Mark Mizerak ineligible
The WPIAL ruled a pair of Greensburg Central Catholic transfers ineligible Monday.
WPIAL will address Propel Andrew Street’s allegations of racial slurs by Leechburg in boys basketball game
January 20, 2020
The WPIAL board voted Monday to call in school administrators and boys basketball coaches from Propel Andrew Street and Leechburg to address allegations of racial slurs.
WPIAL reveals football conference alignment for 2020, 2021 seasons
The WPIAL has witnessed a decline in football attendance, so it took steps Monday to address those concerns.
Big 33 sees 3 alumni reach Super Bowl, extends streak to 54 years
January 19, 2020
The Big 33 Football Classic’s Super Bowl streak continues with help from a former WPIAL athlete.
East Allegheny wide receiver Tyler Padezan commits to Duquesne
East Allegheny’s Tyler Padezan, who earned all-conference honors at wide receiver and defensive back, committed Sunday to Duquesne.
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 18, 2020
January 18, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 18, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Important questions remain as WPIAL football realignment process continues
January 17, 2020
The WPIAL has already requested a weekend at Heinz Field for the football finals, but it’s too early to say which classifications will play their championships at the North Shore stadium.
Woodland Hills basketball showcase draws teams from 7 states for anti-violence event
High school basketball teams from seven states are headed to Woodland Hills this weekend for the Martin Luther King Weekend Stand Against Violence Showcase, a four-day event that features 41 boys and girls varsity games.
Butler football skips independent route, joins District 10 as associate member
January 16, 2020
District 10 accepted Butler’s football team as an associate member Wednesday after the WPIAL endorsed the move.
West Allegheny’s Austin Hendrick next WPIAL standout who could join MLB ranks
January 15, 2020
West Allegheny’s Austin Hendrick tells a story about hitting baseballs two years ago with Neil Walker, the former Pine-Richland player and first-round draft pick of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
WPIAL headed for minor, not major, football realignment
January 14, 2020
WPIAL football will have some smaller conferences and handpicked nonconference matchups next season, but schools don’t want a radical overhaul.
PIAA denies Aliquippa request to remain in Class 3A football
The PIAA competitive-balance rule seems particularly harsh on lower-income communities like Aliquippa, said athletic director Brandon LeDonne, where residents tend to be more transient.
Will Pirates use 1st-round pick on West Allegheny’s Austin Hendrick?
January 13, 2020
West Allegheny baseball star Austin Hendrick, ranked as the top high school bat in the country, is expected to hear his name called early in this summer’s MLB Draft.
Shenango shot putter Emma Callahan ranks 1st nationally in indoor season
January 12, 2020
Shenango sophomore Emma Callahan climbed to the top of the national shot put rankings this weekend.
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 12, 2020
January 11, 2020
WPIAL girls basketball rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 11, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Short-handed Upper St. Clair uses ‘7 starters’ in victory over Bethel Park
With two starters out with injuries, Upper St. Clair could’ve easily explained away a lackluster effort Friday night, but the Panthers made sure that wasn’t necessary.
Charity basketball event draws out-of-state talent to Montour
January 10, 2020
The Winter Jamfest to End Domestic Violence, a five-game basketball showcase, will bring out-of-state talent to Montour’s gym Saturday.
West Allegheny football coach Chris Lucas resigns after 1 season
West Allegheny is searching once again for a new football coach.
Gateway’s Derrick Davis accepts invitation to Under Armour All-American Game
Derrick Davis hasn’t decided his college future yet, but he knows where he’ll be next January.
Quaker Valley wrestling adds transfer ranked 2nd in state
January 9, 2020
Sophomore wrestler Hunter Robison, who’s ranked second in the state, has transferred to Quaker Valley.
2 WPIAL football realignment proposals would cut down on travel
WPIAL football teams will play games closer to home next season, one way or another.
WPIAL football realignment: Small tweaks or major overhaul? Schools will decide
January 8, 2020
The WPIAL revealed two football realignments options Wednesday night, one that only tweaks the current format and another that would change the landscape drastically.
Ethan Morton’s triple-double leads Butler past rival Pine-Richland in OT
Ethan Morton’s 3-point shot wasn’t falling and Pine-Richland’s defense didn’t allow many layups, so Butler’s star prevailed instead with free throws.
Butler high jumper ranks 2nd nationally after TSTCA indoor opener
January 5, 2020
Butler high jumper Sami Taoufik started his TSTCA indoor track season Saturday with an early-season victory that has him ranked second nationally.
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 5, 2020
January 4, 2020
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Jan. 5, 2020
WPIAL rankings
2010s TribLive HSSN All-Decade Football Team: Coaches
The WPIAL awarded 48 football titles during the past decade and most of them went to the same 10 coaches.
2010s TribLive HSSN All-Decade Football Team: Defense
January 3, 2020
When the NFL playoffs arrive this weekend, three WPIAL defensive stars from the past decade will be in uniform, a testament to the football talent Western Pennsylvania produces.
Struggling Butler football program leaving WPIAL for independent schedule
Worried that years of losing will force its program to someday fold, Butler decided it won’t play WPIAL football next season and instead will put together an independent schedule.
2010s TribLive HSSN All-Decade Football Team: Offense
January 2, 2020
The 2010s were a record-setting decade for WPIAL football teams, with career, single-season and single-game record books rewritten more than once.
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 29, 2019
December 28, 2019
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 29, 2019
WPIAL rankings
Class 2A all-state football: Avonworth’s Duke Johncour named Coach of the Year
Fresh off their team’s first PIAA championship appearance, two Avonworth players earned all-state honors Saturday and Duke Johncour was named Pennsylvania’s Coach of the Year in Class 2A.
Class 4A all-state football: 4 Thomas Jefferson players selected, Cherpak voted top coach
Thomas Jefferson’s quarterback, top running back, wide receiver and lineman all earned all-state honors Saturday, statewide recognition for winning WPIAL and PIAA titles with an undefeated 16-0 record.
Class 6A all-state football: Central Catholic leads WPIAL with 4 players
Central Catholic senior Jonathan Opalko twice made game-winning field goals in the playoffs and had a school-record 54-yarder in the regular season, kicks that earned him all-state honors Saturday.
Class A all-state football: West Greene’s Ben Jackson named Pa. Player of the Year
December 27, 2019
West Greene’s Ben Jackson became the first player in WPIAL history to rush for 3,000 yards in a single season, an achievement that earned him accolades this fall.
Class 3A all-state football: Central Valley leads WPIAL teams with 4 honorees
WPIAL champion Central Valley, which returned to the PIAA finals for the first time in five years, was rewarded Friday with four all-state selections.
Class 5A all-state football: Peters Township, Gateway, Moon claim multiple spots
WPIAL finalists Gateway and Peters Township combined Friday to fill five spots on the Class 5A all-state team led by Gators junior Derrick Davis, who was picked for the second consecutive year.
Trib WPIAL boys basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 22, 2019
December 21, 2019
WPIAL rankings
Trib WPIAL girls basketball rankings: Week ending Dec. 22, 2019
WPIAL rankings
Western Pa. football recruits make official commitments during early signing period
December 18, 2019
The early signing period for Division I football recruits arrived Wednesday and high school seniors across Western Pennsylvania took to social media to reveal their official commitments.
Transfers will force Aliquippa football to Class 4A, pending appeal to PIAA
December 17, 2019
Aliquippa ranks among the smallest football schools in the WPIAL, with only four more boys than Jeannette and nine fewer than Shenango.
WPIAL denies Butler request to join District 10 in football
Mired in a 20-game losing streak, Butler’s football team asked to leave the WPIAL and join District 10, but that request was denied by the WPIAL board Monday.
Missouri wrestling champion Wyatt Henson eligible for WPIAL, PIAA tournaments
December 16, 2019
Waynesburg transfer Wyatt Henson, a Missouri state wrestling champion, was ruled eligible Monday for the WPIAL and PIAA tournaments this winter.
WPIAL executive director Tim O’Malley retiring, board promotes Amy Scheuneman
The WPIAL will have a change in leadership this summer.
North Allegheny’s Sam Sheridan commits to Patriot League football
North Allegheny’s Sam Sheridan, an all-conference defensive end, has committed to Lehigh.
Seton LaSalle’s Max Schipani follows high school connections to Albany
December 15, 2019
Seton LaSalle’s Max Schipani will play college football for a coach who knows his high school very well.
Gateway’s Derrick Davis named TribLive HSSN Football Player of the Year
With nearly 30 college scholarship offers, Gateway’s Derrick Davis admits he’s had to look back through his Twitter timeline just to remember them all.
Undefeated state champions, record-setting rusher among Trib 25 football all-stars
December 14, 2019
The WPIAL crowned six more champions this season, each with a unique story to tell. There was an undefeated state champion who celebrated win No. 16 in Hershey and a running back from Greene County who became the first to 3,000 yards.
WPIAL boys basketball rankings for week of Dec. 15, 2019
Boys
WPIAL girls basketball rankings for Week of Dec. 15, 2019
Class 6A
PCN will re-air Pine-Richland’s snowy 2003 PIAA football final
December 12, 2019
The images are among the most iconic in PIAA football championship history.
WPIAL survey results: Schools favor 6 playoff brackets, mixed on realignment approach
The WPIAL’s football survey produced mixed results on some topics, but a clear majority of schools want to keep six separate playoff brackets.
PIAA could force Aliquippa football to Class 4A under competitive-balance rule
December 11, 2019
Add Aliquippa to the list of football teams that might be forced into a higher classification next season.
Influential WPIAL administrator Charles ‘Ace’ Heberling dies
December 9, 2019
Charles “Ace” Heberling, who directed the WPIAL for more than two decades and is credited with making the league what it is today, died Monday. He was 94.
Peters Township’s Donovan McMillon adds 2 offers as NCAA coaches enter contact period
High school football players are in the midst of a two-week contact period on the NCAA recruiting calendar, a 14-day span that’s kept WPIAL juniors busy.
Gateway sophomore Patrick Body adds first Division I football offer
Gateway sophomore Patrick Body made two of the Gators’ most important catches in the playoffs and was rewarded this week with his first Division I college offer.
WPIAL leading receiver David Pantelis announces offer from Duquesne
December 8, 2019
As the WPIAL’s leading receiver, Upper St. Clair’s David Pantelis earned the attention of WPIAL defensive coordinators all across Class 5A.
Wyoming Area’s late rally stuns Central Valley in PIAA championship
December 7, 2019
HERSHEY — Momentum might be a myth to some, but Central Valley believes in it wholeheartedly.
Going up? PIAA could force Southern Columbia, others into higher football classification
Southern Columbia has no equal in Class 2A football, a lesson Avonworth learned Friday.
Southern Columbia routs Avonworth in record-setting PIAA championship
December 6, 2019
HERSHEY — Avonworth’s Park Penrod and Trevor Faulkner connected for an electric 43-yard touchdown pass on the opening possession Friday, and for more than 4 minutes, the Antelopes led the state championship.
Thomas Jefferson dominates Dallas, celebrates 4th PIAA title
December 5, 2019
HERSHEY — Thomas Jefferson’s Bill Cherpak had coached 24 seasons, won seven WPIAL titles and celebrated three state championships before this year.
Avonworth will ‘relish’ underdog role against 9-time PIAA champion Southern Columbia
Avonworth coach Duke Johncour acknowledges the apparent mismatch his football team is walking into Friday when the Antelopes make their first state championship appearance.
Thomas Jefferson sees ‘mirror image’ in state championship opponent Dallas
December 4, 2019
Instead of heading home after last week’s semifinal win, Thomas Jefferson coach Bill Cherpak and a few assistants drove two hours from Hollidaysburg to Danville to watch Dallas win the other state semifinal.
Ambridge basketball coach Mark Jula retires week before season opener
December 2, 2019
Ambridge boys basketball coach Mark Jula started to question his passion for the job, so he retired a week before the season opener.
Central Catholic loses in overtime to nationally ranked St. Joseph’s Prep
November 30, 2019
ALTOONA — Nationally ranked St. Joseph’s Prep needed overtime Saturday to defeat Central Catholic, 31-24, but the WPIAL champion didn’t leave Mansion Park Stadium satisfied with just coming close.
Fast start leads Thomas Jefferson to PIAA semifinal victory over Lampeter-Strasburg
November 29, 2019
HOLLIDAYSBURG — After an 11-year wait, Thomas Jefferson is finally headed back to Hershey, but there wasn’t much suspense in the victory that made it happen.
Central Catholic ‘not awestruck’ by nationally ranked St. Joseph’s Prep
National rankings list St. Joseph’s Prep as one of the best high school football teams not only in Pennsylvania but in the entire country.
Gateway star Derrick Davis ‘game-time decision’ as Gators draw rematch with Archbishop Wood
November 27, 2019
Archbishop Wood had a four-star recruit two years ago when the Philadelphia Catholic League power walloped Gateway in a lopsided state championship game.
Thomas Jefferson, Belle Vernon lead Big Eight all-conference with 8 players each
Conference champion Thomas Jefferson had eight players earn first-team all-conference honors in the Big Eight, and quarterback Shane Stump was named Offensive Player of the Year in a vote of coaches.
Central Valley tops Tri-County West with 11 all-conference selections
Beaver Falls running back Josh Hough and Keystone Oaks quarterback Logan Schrubb shared Offensive MVP honors in the Tri-County West in a vote of conference coaches.
Burgettstown tops Three Rivers all-conference with 9 on 1st team
Burgettstown completed its second consecutive undefeated regular season and was rewarded by Three Rivers coaches with nine players on the all-conference first team.
Clairton’s Brendan Parsons, Jeannette’s Justin Cramer lead Eastern all-conference team
Clairton and Jeannette, the top two teams in the Eastern, had 19 players combined earn first-team all-conference honors in a vote of coaches.
West Greene record-setter Ben Jackson leads Tri-County South all-conference
West Greene running back Ben Jackson, who became the first WPIAL rusher to top 3,000 yards in a season, was among the players recognized by coaches in the Class A Tri-County South.
Undefeated Avonworth earns 14 spots on all-conference 1st team in Allegheny
Undefeated conference champion Avonworth dominated the all-conference voting this season by claiming 14 of the available 28 first-team spots.
Cornell, Laurel sweep individual awards on Big 7 all-conference team
Cornell earned a share of the Big Seven title and a home playoff game for only the second time in school history, accomplishments that shaped all-conference voting.
WPIAL bans West Mifflin from 2020 football playoffs for using ineligible player
November 25, 2019
The West Mifflin football team used an ineligible player all season, so the Titans are banned from the postseason next year, the WPIAL decided Monday.
Gateway wins field-position battle with Peters Township for 7th WPIAL title
November 23, 2019
Gateway didn’t score a point in the final 20 minutes Saturday night, but ultimately they didn’t need any.
Gateway, Peters Township big-play offenses will test 5A’s stingiest defenses
Gateway’s Derrick Davis can take a screen pass to the end zone at any time, and Peters Township’s Josh Casilli is just as dangerous with the football in his hands.
Thomas Jefferson finally clears Cathedral Prep hurdle
November 22, 2019
The referee held his hands only a few inches apart.
WPIAL Class 5A football final primer: Gateway vs. Peters Township
WPIAL Class 5A championship
WPIAL survey asks: Should every football team make the playoffs?
Would you be interested in every WPIAL football team making the playoffs?
Central Catholic keeps focus on State College with possible St. Joseph’s matchup looming
November 21, 2019
Central Catholic could have a showdown with defending state champion St. Joseph’s Prep on the horizon, an East vs. West clash with the nationally ranked Philadelphia power.
Ineligible Avonworth football player drops lawsuit against WPIAL, PIAA
Attorneys for ineligible Avonworth football player Kyros Thorpe withdrew his lawsuit against the WPIAL and PIAA on Thursday, ending his legal battle to play in the WPIAL football championship.
Wyatt Henson returns to Waynesburg after winning Missouri state wrestling title
Missouri state wrestling champion Wyatt Henson has transferred back to Waynesburg, but the junior isn’t eligible for the WPIAL or PIAA postseason tournaments this winter.
Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe seeks court injunction to play in WPIAL Class 2A football final
November 20, 2019
Turned away by both the WPIAL and PIAA, Avonworth senior Kyros Thorpe is taking his eligibility battle to court.
Basketball star Isiah Warfield remains ineligible for postseason after WPIAL denies waiver
November 18, 2019
WPIAL basketball star Isiah Warfield remains ineligible to play in the playoffs this winter.
West Mifflin possibly used ineligible football player all season, WPIAL says
The WPIAL wants to hear from West Mifflin’s football coach and school administrators to determine whether the Titans used an ineligible football player all season.
WPIAL board unanimously approves Ligonier Valley request to join District 7
The WPIAL board voted unanimously Monday to accept Ligonier Valley as a member.
Opalko’s late field goal lifts Central Catholic past Pine-Richland in WPIAL Class 6A final
November 16, 2019
This was a kick that might make NFL kickers nervous.
Aliquippa quarterback plays in WPIAL championship hours after mother’s death
On the eve of the WPIAL championships, Aliquippa football coach Mike Warfield received a desperate text message from his quarterback.
WPIAL Class 6A football finals primer: Central Catholic vs. Pine-Richland
WPIAL Class 6A championship
Gateway’s defense uses 4th-down stands to edge McKeesport in WPIAL semifinals
McKeesport’s Devari Robinson sprinted forward on fourth-and-4, colliding with Gateway linebacker Jay Johnson, who dragged him to the Offutt Field turf.
5 things to watch in Week 12 of high school football: TJ’s Cherpak draws Belichick comparisons
November 15, 2019
Thomas Jefferson coach Bill Cherpak chuckles at the comparison, but maybe it’s too not farfetched?
WPIAL Class 4A football finals primer: Thomas Jefferson vs. Belle Vernon
WPIAL Class 4A championship
WPIAL championship rematch with fearsome Central Catholic line awaits Pine-Richland
One lineman is the talented nephew of an NFL superstar. One is 6-foot-5 and committed to North Carolina. The two others are gigantic twin brothers with more than 20 scholarship offers.
Familiar foes Belle Vernon, Thomas Jefferson to meet for WPIAL Class 4A title
November 13, 2019
Belle Vernon knocked loudly on the WPIAL championship door two years in a row without an answer, each time losing in the semifinals.
PIAA postpones Tuesday’s state soccer semifinals at Hampton, Slippery Rock
November 12, 2019
Snow-covered fields forced the PIAA to postpone Tuesday’s soccer semifinals at Hampton and Slippery Rock.
Midwestern: New Brighton’s Francona, Western Beaver’s Altenbaugh lead all-conference team
November 11, 2019
New Brighton receiver Jake Francona and Western Beaver linebacker Zach Altenbaugh earned MVP honors this season in the Midwestern Athletic Conference.
Northern: Penn Hills lands 9 players, coach on 1st-team, all-conference list
Penn Hills had nine players voted first-team all-conference by coaches including eight on the defensive side of the football.
Big East: 9 from Penn-Trafford voted 1st-team all-conference, Ruane top coach
bPenn-Trafford went undefeated in the regular season and dominated the Big East once again Monday in the all-conference voting.
Allegheny 8: Peters Township leads all-conference voting with 8 on 1st team
Moon went from one conference win to a share of the Allegheny Eight title, a turnaround that earned Ryan Linn conference coach of the year honors.
Central Catholic leads 6A all-conference team; Canon-Mac’s Evans top coach
Central Catholic, North Allegheny and Pine-Richland finished tied as tri-champions in WPIAL Class 6A, but the Vikings ran away with the all-conference vote.
Mt. Lebanon’s Patrick Anderson leads PTFCA all-state cross country team
November 10, 2019
Two-time state cross country champion Patrick Anderson was named as the sport’s male athlete of the year by the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.
Washington leads all-conference selections in Class 2A Century
Washington quarterback Zack Swartz, lineman Zakhi Marshall and coach Mike Bosnic won individual awards in the Class 2A Century.
Five things we learned in high school football Week 11
November 9, 2019
With another celebration at Heinz Field, Central Catholic or Pine-Richland can call itself the team of the decade in the WPIAL’s largest classification.
Peters Township wins rematch with Moon in WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal
November 8, 2019
When Peters Township lost to Moon in the regular season, Josh Casilli’s stat line read: one catch, six yards.
Allegheny 8 co-champions Moon, Peters Township rematch in WPIAL quarterfinals
The WPIAL football playoffs often bring together unfamiliar teams, so their coaches spend hours studying one another on film.
After 2 winless seasons, Butler football might leave WPIAL for independent schedule
November 7, 2019
Mired in a 20-game losing streak, Butler’s football team might leave the WPIAL for an independent schedule next season.
5 things to watch in Week 11 of high school football: North Allegheny, Mt. Lebanon looking to flip script
How much can change in 14 days?
PIAA football realignment: What classification will teams call home in 2020, 2021?
PIAA football teams learned Thursday which classification they’ll call home next season.
Former WPIAL basketball star Donovan ‘Puff’ Johnson commits to North Carolina
November 5, 2019
Former WPIAL basketball star Donovan “Puff” Johnson committed Tuesday night to North Carolina, choosing a school where older brother Cameron played.
WPIAL announces football playoff sites for Week 11: Class 5A rematch at West A
November 4, 2019
Peters Township and Moon, co-champions in the Allegheny Eight, will play for the second time in six weeks when they meet Friday night in a WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal at West Allegheny.
Pine-Richland lineman Miguel Jackson adds 3rd Division I offer
November 3, 2019
Pine-Richland’s Miguel Jackson, one of the WPIAL’s top pass rushers, added his third Division I offer this week.
2 WPIAL seniors receive 1st Division I offers from Rhode Island
Two WPIAL football players received their first Division I offers this week from the same FCS school.
5 things we learned in Week 10: McGuffey, West Greene celebrate 1st WPIAL playoff win in decades
November 2, 2019
McGuffey waited 25 years for Friday night’s celebration. West Greene waited 26. New Brighton waited 18.
QB Ethan Dahlem exits, but fast start leads Upper St. Clair past North Hills
November 1, 2019
Like a scene from scary movie, Upper St. Clair quarterback Ethan Dahlem’s head and helmet were twisted around in the wrong direction as he crossed the goal line.
Upper St. Clair out to deny North Hills its 1st playoff win since 2010
North Hills and Upper St. Clair haven’t played one another in nearly a decade, but a first-round matchup has stirred some nostalgia.
Home-field advantage weighs heavy in WPIAL playoffs
October 31, 2019
North Hills’ Rowdie Rooters, the team’s famed hilltop cheering section, hasn’t celebrated a home playoff game at Martorelli Stadium in almost a decade.
2nd WPIAL football playoff game moved to artificial turf
Friday’s forecast predicts drier weather, but Thursday’s rain was enough to force two WPIAL football playoff games to be moved off grass.
PIAA overturns WPIAL, makes Clairton’s Wayne Wade III eligible for football playoffs
Clairton senior Wayne Wade III can participate in the football playoffs, the PIAA decided Thursday, overturning a WPIAL decision on the eve of the postseason.
Weather forecast forces Cornell to move football playoff game to West Allegheny
October 30, 2019
The Cornell football team was hoping to play its first home playoff game since 1983, but a rainy forecast has changed those plans.
Choosing Washington or Avonworth for No. 1 seed among WPIAL’s toughest bracket picks
October 28, 2019
Choosing the No. 1 seeds was maybe easier than usual for the WPIAL football committee with one exception: Class 2A.
Breaking down the 2019 WPIAL football playoffs
Class 6A
5 things we learned in Week 9: Cornell earns 1st home playoff game since 1983
October 26, 2019
Many at Cornell couldn’t remember the football team ever hosting a playoff game, coach Ed Dawson said, but that’s understandable after more than three decades.
WPIAL football rankings through Week 9
WPIAL Football
Pine-Richland defeats rival North Allegheny, creates 3-way tie for conference title
October 25, 2019
Pine-Richland quarterback Cole Spencer scanned across North Allegheny’s defense, spotted a safety out of position and turned that mistake into a 79-yard touchdown pass.
North Allegheny, Pine-Richland chasing 1st-round byes along with conference title
North Allegheny coach Art Walker hasn’t studied playoff scenarios or counted tiebreaker points ahead of Friday’s regular-season finale at Pine-Richland.
5 things to watch in Week 9: Aliquippa, Central Valley battle for conference title
October 24, 2019
Only one team has defeated Aliquippa in the past two seasons combined: Central Valley in Week 9 last year.
Karen Arnold named athletic director for Pittsburgh City League
Karen Arnold was named athletic director for Pittsburgh Public Schools on Thursday, making her the first woman to hold that position.
WPIAL finds evidence ‘credible,’ but won’t punish Connellsville, Allderdice for slurs
October 22, 2019
The WPIAL found the evidence “credible,” but Connellsville and Allderdice won’t be punished for the racial and anti-gay slurs allegedly exchanged in a boys high school soccer match last month.
Clairton’s Wayne Wade III among 2 denied postseason eligibility by WPIAL
The WPIAL denied an appeal from Clairton transfer Wayne Wade III on Monday, leaving the senior ineligible for the upcoming football playoffs.
WPIAL investigates slurs in 2-hour hearing with Allderdice, Connellsville; decision Tuesday
October 21, 2019
The WPIAL board of directors, investigating allegations of racial and anti-gay slurs, heard more than two hours of testimony Monday night from boys soccer players, coaches and administrators representing Allderdice and Connellsville.
No vote yet, but WPIAL open to admitting Ligonier Valley
The WPIAL administration supports Ligonier Valley switching districts, if the school is released from PIAA District 6.
Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington adds Robert Morris offer
October 20, 2019
Quaker Valley basketball standout Corinne Washington received a Robert Morris offer Saturday, making her the second WPIAL junior this month to add a Colonials scholarship.
Peters Township’s Donovan McMillon announces first Division I football offer
Peters Township’s Donovan McMillon made one of his team’s biggest plays Friday night and then added his first Division I offer a day later.
Five things we learned in Week 8: Special moment for Neshannock’s Jeremy Nativio
October 19, 2019
Around the WPIAL, Neshannock senior Jeremy Nativio’s 34-yard touchdown run became a feel-good internet sensation.
WPIAL football rankings through Week 8
WPIAL Football
Special teams shine as Peters Township defeats Bethel Park in 1st-place clash
Peters Township’s longest touchdown drive covered just 37 yards Friday night, rather short for one of the WPIAL’s top offenses.
Bethel Park, Peters Township to break 1st-place tie in unpredictable Allegheny 8
October 18, 2019
Nobody’s perfect in the Allegheny Eight, but that’s because the conference is the deepest in the WPIAL this season.
McGuffey installing two-toned gray turf at football stadium
October 17, 2019
McGuffey’s football field is going gray.
5 things to watch in Week 8 of the high school football season
For many teams, there’s still hope.
Upper St. Clair swimming star Josh Matheny commits to Indiana
October 16, 2019
The Indiana Hoosiers are probably known best for an iconic basketball program once coached by Bob Knight, but the school also has a swim team that celebrates championships.
2 top WPIAL juniors announce Michigan State football offers
Michigan State has recruited its share of WPIAL football players, a list that recently included Montae Nicholson of Gateway and Demetrious Cox of Jeannette.
Former Pine-Richland linebacker Tyler King commits to Stony Brook
October 14, 2019
Former Pine-Richland standout Tyler King, the leading tackler for two WPIAL titles and a state championship, announced Sunday his commitment to Stony Brook.
Sto-Rox’s Eric Wilson becomes 9th WPIAL passer with 7,000 career yards
October 13, 2019
Sto-Rox’s Eric Wilson topped 7,000 career passing yards on Friday night, becoming only the ninth quarterback in WPIAL history to reach the milestone.
Former Pine-Richland, West A standout Kenny White adds Robert Morris offer
Former Pine-Richland and West Allegheny standout Kenny White, now a junior college sophomore, added his third Division I offer this week from Robert Morris.
Woodland Hills junior Peyton Pinkney adds Robert Morris offer
Woodland Hills junior Peyton Pinkney has two hometown basketball offers now that Robert Morris has joined her scholarship list.
5 takeaways from Week 7: Keystone Oaks QB tops 500 total yards in extraordinary effort
Keystone Oaks coach Greg Perry wasn’t too surprised, but quarterback Logan Shrubb didn’t seem tired when he arrived Saturday morning to lift weights.
WPIAL sets new hearing date for Connellsville, Allderdice to address slur accusations
The WPIAL hearing for Connellsville and Allderdice to address accusations of racial and anti-gay slurs was rescheduled for Oct. 21.
No ‘doormat’: Moon tied for 1st after defeating Upper St. Clair
October 11, 2019
Doormats? Hardly.
Moon faces another top wideout in Allegheny 8 clash with Upper St. Clair
October 10, 2019
For the second week in a row, Moon faces a big-play offense with one of the WPIAL’s top wide receivers.
5 things to watch in Week 7 of the high school football season
One conference loss is manageable, but two might doom someone’s season in WPIAL Class A.
Scheduling conflict forces WPIAL to move football championship from Robert Morris
October 8, 2019
A scheduling conflict at Robert Morris has forced the WPIAL to move its Class 2A football championship to Norwin.
5 takeaways from Week 6: Southmoreland snaps cold spell
October 5, 2019
Southmoreland coach Dave Keefer saw no reason to hide the team’s 40-year playoff drought from his players.
WPIAL football rankings through Week 6
WPIAL Football
Thomas Jefferson slows Central Valley’s big-play offense in nonconference clash
October 4, 2019
Central Valley has the type of athlete-heavy spread offense that’s caused Thomas Jefferson trouble in recent years.
PIAA tightens competitive balance formula for football, basketball transfers
Adding one transfer could force a basketball team into a higher PIAA classification.
PIAA might ease co-op rules for small schools struggling to fill rosters
October 3, 2019
With many small districts struggling to fill rosters, the PIAA might make it easier for two schools to form a combined sports team.
5 things to watch in Week 6 of the high school football season
Thomas Jefferson coach Bill Cherpak likes this week’s matchup but not necessarily the timing.
Central Valley, Thomas Jefferson rekindle rivalry from their Class AAA days
It wasn’t long ago that Thomas Jefferson and Central Valley were linked in a budding rivalry.
Gateway junior Derrick Davis adds another Top 25 football offer
Derrick Davis’ long list of scholarship offers is starting to resemble the Top 25 polls.
PIAA cross county champion Patrick Anderson commits to North Carolina
Mt. Lebanon senior Patrick Anderson, the defending state cross country champion, committed to North Carolina.
Baseball coach Steve Bucci leaves South Park for alma mater Baldwin
October 2, 2019
Baseball coach Steve Bucci, who owns both WPIAL and state titles, is leaving South Park for Baldwin, his alma mater.
Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe among 3 denied postseason eligibility by PIAA
Avonworth football standout Kyros Thorpe was among three transfers left ineligible for the postseason after the PIAA upheld earlier WPIAL decisions Wednesday.
Chartiers Valley sophomore Perri Page adds Duquesne offer
September 30, 2019
Chartiers Valley sophomore Perri Page added a Duquesne basketball offer Monday, making her the third returning player from last year’s state championship lineup with Division I options.
PCN will re-air Darrelle Revis’ 5-touchdown performance in PIAA championship
Sixteen years later, high school football fans still marvel over Darrelle Revis’ performance in the 2003 state championship.
Central Catholic quarterback Dom Pieto commits to play Division I baseball
September 29, 2019
A day after quarterbacking Central Catholic’s football team to a win over then-No. 1 Pine-Richland, Dom Pieto announced his college commitment.
Gateway basketball standout Lexi Jackson commits to Kent State
All-section center Lexi Jackson, who averaged a double-double for Gateway’s girls basketball team, committed Saturday to Kent State.
5 takeaways from Week 5: WPIAL working overtime
September 28, 2019
Not many WPIAL football teams have worked overtime this season, but regulation wasn’t enough for three games Friday night.
WPIAL football rankings through Week 5
WPIAL Football
Dramatic win holds special meaning for Ringgold football, Rosensteel family
Ringgold’s student section rushed onto the field as time expired Friday night, overcome with excitement when a last-second field goal by Clayton Rosensteel gave the football team its first win in two years.
No. 3 Central Catholic leans on talented line, Eddy Tillman to defeat No. 1 Pine-Richland
September 27, 2019
A’meer Allen noticed a troubling trend in recent years.
Will Pine-Richland vs. Central Catholic predict WPIAL champion once again?
September 26, 2019
Central Catholic and Pine-Richland have a shared history that few recent rivalries can match.
5 things to watch in Week 5 of high school football
Central Valley traveled 13 miles to play its first conference road game this season and only nine miles for its second, matchups with Beaver County rivals Blackhawk and Beaver Falls.
WPIAL postpones hearing for Allderdice, Connellsville boys soccer teams
September 23, 2019
A WPIAL hearing scheduled Wednesday for the Allderdice and Connellsville boys soccer teams has been postponed.
Shady Side Academy will forfeit football game against Apollo-Ridge
Citing a lack of healthy players, Shady Side Academy notified Apollo-Ridge on Monday that it will forfeit this week’s football game.
Burgettstown lineman Riley Kemper commits to Robert Morris
September 22, 2019
Burgettstown lineman Riley Kemper, a reigning WPIAL wrestling champion, committed Sunday to play football at Robert Morris.
5 takeaways from Week 4: Northern Conference continues to roil
September 21, 2019
Is there a WPIAL conference more volatile than the Northern?
WPIAL football rankings through Week 4
WPIAL Football
North Allegheny’s Percise Colon draws big comparisons after victory over Mt. Lebanon
September 20, 2019
Art Walker has a small-but-sensational running back who’s undersized and maybe underestimated, but one that could lead the team to a championship.
WPIAL sets hearing date for Connellsville, Allderdice to address racial, anti-gay slurs
Representatives from Connellsville and Allderdice will meet next week to address allegations that the schools’ boys soccer teams used racial and anti-gay slurs.
Mt. Lebanon isn’t ‘well-oiled machine,’ but will battle North Allegheny for 1st place
September 19, 2019
Bob Palko wants to build Mt. Lebanon into the “well-oiled machine” that his West Allegheny program was, but first, all of the parts have to be assembled correctly.
5 things to watch in Week 4 of high school football
Clairton will try to do something that Mohawk, Rochester, Bishop Canevin and California couldn’t.
Injuries force Bishop Canevin to forfeit football game against OLSH
Citing a lack of healthy players, Bishop Canevin announced that it will forfeit this week’s football game against Our Lady of the Sacred Heart.
WPIAL wants 2 football coaches suspended for violating heat acclimatization rules
September 17, 2019
The WPIAL wants two football coaches suspended for a scrimmage next season for violating preseason heat acclimatization rules.
Seton LaSalle football player among 2 ruled eligible after WPIAL hearings
The WPIAL ruled Seton LaSalle transfer Tyler Buzalka eligible for football season following a hearing Monday in Green Tree.
WPIAL calls in Connellsville, Allderdice after more racial slur allegations
September 16, 2019
The WPIAL is calling in Connellsville administrators for the second time in two years to face allegations that the school’s boys soccer team targeted an opponent with racial slurs.
North Allegheny freshman Jasmine Timmerson adds Robert Morris offer
September 15, 2019
A couple of weeks after adding a Michigan State basketball offer, North Allegheny freshman Jasmine Timmerson received one from a school much closer to home.
Rochester sophomore Corynne Hauser adds 3rd Division I basketball offer
Rochester sophomore Corynne Hauser, who helped the Rams win a WPIAL girls basketball title last winter, received her third Division I offer this week.
Brian Eyerman, Alex Papson among North Allegheny hall of fame class
Football standouts Brian Eyerman and Alex Papson are among 11 former North Allegheny athletes who’ll be inducted next month into the school’s sports hall of fame.
5 takeaways from Week 3: Quarterback’s 485 yards among all-time WPIAL best
September 14, 2019
Gaudy statistics by WPIAL quarterbacks aren’t unusual anymore, but occasionally there’s a number that stands out among the rest.
WPIAL football rankings through Week 3
WPIAL Football
Drastic changes in enrollment factor into high school football participation decline
When McKeesport coach Matt Miller was a senior in 1991, the Tigers had around 85 names on the football roster. This year, his team has 47.
No. 4 Penn Hills forces 6 turnovers in 14-7 victory over Mars
September 13, 2019
The halftime adjustment for Penn Hills’ defensive line seemed almost counter-intuitive: Try not to rush into the backfield too quickly.
5 things to watch in Week 3 of high school football: Sept. 13-14
September 12, 2019
If Avonworth quarterback Park Penrod throws a touchdown or scrambles for a first down, his name won’t echo through the stadium Friday night.
Spotting ‘fakes’ crucial as Penn Hills prepares for Mars’ misdirection
Mars coach Scott Heinauer took time during film study to praise a run by Nick Spotti that gained exactly zero yards.
Central Catholic lineman Thomas Hartnett commits to Dartmouth
September 11, 2019
The Ivy League added another WPIAL lineman Wednesday when Central Catholic’s Thomas Hartnett committed to Dartmouth.
Jeannette, Avella consider rescheduling football game but agree to play Friday night
September 10, 2019
Jeannette and Avella school administrators discussed moving this week’s football game to a different date or time, but ultimately agreed to play the game as scheduled.
5 takeaways from Week 2 of high school football action
September 7, 2019
Less than a week after being shot in the leg and feet, West Mifflin quarterback Jaylen Dukes walked back onto a football field with crutches Friday night.
WPIAL football rankings through Week 2
WPIAL football rankings
South Fayette’s Naman Alemada throws 5 touchdowns in win over New Castle
September 6, 2019
South Fayette’s Naman Alemada tossed five touchdown passes in Friday night’s 37-21 victory, but those throws weren’t the only ones that left New Castle coach Joe Cowart impressed.
Washington lineman Chase Mitchell commits to FBS newcomer Liberty
The WPIAL added another Division I lineman to the 2020 recruiting class Thursday when Washington’s Chase Mitchell committed to Liberty.
New Castle wants to stop South Fayette’s 3-year undefeated run in Northwest 8
September 5, 2019
The name changed from the Northwest Nine to the Northwest Eight, but whatever the Class 4A conference was called, South Fayette has owned it.
Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe among 3 denied postseason eligibility by WPIAL
Avonworth transfer Kyros Thorpe can complete the regular season but the football standout remains ineligible for the playoffs.
WPIAL rules North Catholic soccer transfer Jayden Sharpless eligible
A WPIAL hearing panel overturned an earlier decision and ruled North Catholic soccer star Jayden Sharpless eligible Thursday by a narrow vote.
5 things to watch in Week 2 of high school football
In more than a century of WPIAL football, only three schools have reached 700 all-time victories: New Castle, Jeannette and Aliquippa.
Avonworth football standout Kyros Thorpe seeks postseason eligibility
September 2, 2019
Avonworth’s Kyros Thorpe has made an immediate impact since transferring from Central Catholic, but it’s unknown whether he’ll be eligible for the football playoffs.
WPIAL schedules eligibility hearing for soccer star Jayden Sharpless
North Catholic transfer Jayden Sharpless, the top WPIAL girls soccer player last season, will learn this week whether she can play this fall.
Central Catholic junior Elliot Donald reveals 8 favorite scholarship offers
September 1, 2019
Central Catholic junior Elliot Donald posted a favorites list this week that included all three area colleges and some of the top programs nationally.
North Allegheny freshman adds Michigan State basketball offer
Jasmine Timmerson won’t make her high school basketball debut for a few more months, but the North Allegheny freshman already has a Big 10 scholarship offer.
Gateway junior Derrick Davis adds another SEC football offer
Gateway’s Derrick Davis might soon be able to choose any college in the country.
5 takeaways from Week 1 of high school football action
August 31, 2019
Carlynton accomplished something Friday the program hadn’t done in 14 years.
WPIAL football rankings through Week 1
Class 6A
Central Catholic scores last-minute touchdown, stops Seneca Valley in wild finish
August 30, 2019
Central Catholic scored with 28 seconds left and then its defense made a touchdown-saving tackle as time expired Friday night, a wild finish to a 10-7 victory at Seneca Valley.
Randy Rovesti retires as Gateway athletic director
Randy Rovesti thought he’d be Gateway’s interim athletic director for maybe two or three months, just long enough for the district to find someone else.
5 things to watch in Week 1 high school football
August 29, 2019
Aliquippa’s Mike Warfield would like to see old Aschman Stadium renovated, but the second-year coach started with the field house that holds the team’s lockers and weight room.
Division I linemen clash as No. 2 Central Catholic visits No. 4 Seneca Valley
Ron Butschle apologized for using what might sound to some like an old coaching cliché.
5 takeaways from Week Zero of high school football action
Two hundred yards is a good night for any WPIAL passer, but nowadays that’s not enough for some quarterbacks.
Pine-Richland uses fast start to defeat Penn Hills in clash of champions
August 23, 2019
Pine-Richland didn’t ease into this new football season.
McGuffey-Ambridge Week Zero football game postponed in 11th hour
Friday night’s football game between Ambridge and McGuffey was postponed because no game officials were hired to work the game, said McGuffey athletic director Ed Dalton.
WPIAL soccer star Jayden Sharpless ruled ineligible after transferring
Jayden Sharpless, one of the WPIAL’s top girls soccer players, was ruled ineligible to play this fall.
WPIAL rules 2 transfers eligible for football, delays decision on another
August 22, 2019
The WPIAL ruled Woodland Hills transfer E’Shawn Carter eligible Thursday, clearing the junior to play football and basketball this school year for the Wolverines.
5 things to watch in high school football for Week Zero
Scrimmage or schedule a game?
WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the new coaches
The South Hills has some new faces this fall.
Aliquippa returns ‘good nucleus’ from WPIAL, PIAA championship lineup
If they all can accept their invitations, Aliquippa football greats Ty Law, Darrelle Revis, Sean Gilbert and Mike Ditka will return home for a Week 1 ceremony.
Woodland Hills transfer Eshawn Carter among 3 WPIAL hearings scheduled for Thursday
Woodland Hills transfer Eshawn Carter and two incoming freshmen at Aliquippa will have their football eligibility decided Thursday during hearing at the WPIAL office in Green Tree.
WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the kickers
August 21, 2019
Sharing your field with a good soccer team can sometimes be a boost for football programs across the WPIAL.
Even without LeDonne in attendance, Penn Hills, Pine-Richland excited for clash of champions
Jon LeDonne won’t take a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains or listen to some Smokey Robinson on his free Friday night.
WPIAL position by position breakdown: Scouting the safeties
August 20, 2019
Versatile safeties are crucial in today’s WPIAL.
Moon basketball star Donovan Johnson joining brother Cameron in Arizona
August 19, 2019
Moon basketball star Donovan “Puff” Johnson is joining older brother Cameron in Arizona.
WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the cornerbacks
There’s no major college recruit on this list like last year when Aliquippa’s M.J. Devonshire, North Allegheny’s Joey Porter Jr. and Penn Hills’ Daequan Hardy topped the cornerback rankings.
Coach Rod Steele makes West Mifflin roster battle for jobs in 1st season
A few days of heat acclimation and a week of camp wasn’t enough time for Rod Steele to pick starters.
WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the linebackers
August 18, 2019
The top linebackers in the WPIAL and City League always include some of the area’s best all-around athletes.
WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the defensive linemen
August 17, 2019
Some years it’s at cornerback. Sometimes it’s the linebackers.
WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the offensive linemen
August 16, 2019
The offensive line is always strong spot for the WPIAL, and it is among the deepest positions again this season.
Bethel Park might be going to no-huddle offense, but toughness remains
There won’t be a fullback in the backfield, the tight end is optional and running backs might play wide receiver, but Bethel Park’s offense isn’t completely new.
Upper St. Clair, Junko start with ‘blank slate’
Upper St. Clair returns only three players who started last season, a seemingly tough spot for a first-year coach.
WPIAL position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the tight ends
August 15, 2019
The traditional hand-on-the-ground tight end has disappeared from some offenses around Western Pennsylvania.
Central Catholic turns the page after frustrating ’18 season
Last season was a difficult one for Central Catholic, hampered at times by turnovers and other self-inflicted mistakes.
Large, veteran offensive line to pave way for Mt. Lebanon
If there’s a difference between Class 5A and 6A football, maybe it’s the size of the linemen.
WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the wide receivers
August 14, 2019
Western Pennsylvania was known historically for producing hall of fame quarterbacks, a trend that shifted in recent decades to superstar defensive backs.
WPIAL Class 6A football breakdown: Coaches expect competitive year, wide-open field
There was a worry the WPIAL Class 6A playoffs might be boring because every game is a rematch from the regular season.
Mars’ Khori Fusco headed to prep powerhouse for post-graduate season
Mars basketball standout Khori Fusco, who was a senior last season, announced Tuesday he’s headed to a powerhouse prep school near Shippensburg.
WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the running backs
August 13, 2019
High school football has become a pass-oriented game, but that doesn’t mean teams across Western Pennsylvania have abandoned running the football.
Bob Palko brings ‘tough love’ to Mt. Lebanon as football teams open camp
August 12, 2019
Bob Palko compared the first day of football camp to planning a beach vacation, even though the only deep blue in sight Monday was Mt. Lebanon’s helmets and his new Blue Devils shorts.
Mars’ Carmody picked for All-American Bowl, 4th WPIAL player in 4 years
For the fourth year in a row, the WPIAL had a high school football player chosen for the All-American Bowl.
WPIAL football position-by-position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks
WPIAL passing records have fallen one after another over the past five years, a sign high school football in Western Pennsylvania has changed.
WPIAL rules Isiah Warfield eligible for senior season, ineligible for playoffs
August 7, 2019
The WPIAL approved Isiah Warfield to play basketball in the regular season, but the Central Valley transfer remains ineligible for the playoffs.
Former West Mifflin coach Lance Maha returns to WPIAL basketball
August 6, 2019
Lance Maha, who coached boys basketball at West Mifflin for two decades, is returning to the WPIAL after one season away.
Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher postpones commitment hours before decision day
August 4, 2019
On the eve of commitment day, Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher decided to postpone his decision.
WPIAL football recruits share their written scholarship offers as August arrives
August 1, 2019
The first day of August is the date each year that college football coaches can send written scholarship offers to high school seniors.
Like his older brother, Seton LaSalle’s Dom Popa commits to Pitt baseball
July 31, 2019
Seton LaSalle’s Dom Popa, whose brother stars for Pitt, committed Monday to also play baseball for the Panthers.
Gateway transfer Diego Bledsoe remains ineligible over father’s critical comments
July 30, 2019
The PIAA listened to critical public comments made by Diego Bledsoe’s father and then upheld a WPIAL decision that leaves the Gateway transfer ineligible to play football.
PIAA overturns suspension levied against Central Catholic coach Brian Urso
The PIAA overturned a WPIAL decision and lifted the suspension given to Central Catholic boys basketball coach Brian Urso.
PIAA overturns WPIAL, makes West Mifflin football standout Nahki Johnson eligible
The recruiting allegations made against Nahki Johnson and coach Rod Steele were “unsubstantiated,” the PIAA decided Tuesday, so it ruled the West Mifflin football standout immediately eligible.
Clairton, McGuffey schedule Week 1 football game
July 29, 2019
Left idle by forfeits, McGuffey and Clairton will have Week 1 football games after all.
Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher sets commitment date
July 28, 2019
Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher hasn’t picked his college but the star linebacker did set a commitment date.
Alabama, rarely seen around WPIAL, offers Gateway junior Derrick Davis
Joe Namath starred there in the 1960s and Robert Foster picked Alabama earlier this decade, but Crimson Tide football offers don’t appear all that often in the WPIAL.
North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski commits to Richmond
July 27, 2019
North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski, one of the WPIAL’s top rising seniors, committed Saturday to Richmond.
WPIAL will re-evaluate how it schedules football after Northgate forfeits
July 26, 2019
The WPIAL will change the way it schedules nonconference football games after a team strategically forfeited for the second time in two years.
Gateway’s Derrick Davis adds Louisville offer as Gators take team trip
July 25, 2019
The Gateway football team took a road trip this week to Louisville and linebacker Derrick Davis picked up a souvenir to bring home.
Peters Township wide receiver Josh Casilli commits to Penn
Peters Township’s Josh Casilli committed Thursday to Penn, choosing an Ivy League path that was wildly successful for another WPIAL wide receiver just a few years ago.
WPIAL’s best football players take break for TribLive HSSN event
July 23, 2019
High school football teams have worked out together for months in weight rooms and practice fields, but suddenly those offseason sessions have a more serious tone.
Quaker Valley’s Corinne Washington adds 2 more Division I offers
Quaker Valley has another Washington with Division I basketball talent.
Armstrong coach Frank Fabian ready for season after short-lived resignation
In two weeks, when WPIAL football teams start heat acclimation, Armstrong coach Frank Fabian will be there for his fifth season with the River Hawks.
QB Eric Wilson wants to help revive Sto-Rox tradition he grew up on
July 21, 2019
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 23 during a HSSN Media Day live broadcast at Kennywood Park.
North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski adds 2 more Division I offers
July 20, 2019
North Catholic’s Kylee Lewandowski, now in the heart of AAU basketball season, added two more college offers.
PIAA sets pitch-count limit for junior high baseball
July 19, 2019
The PIAA believes junior high baseball players shouldn’t throw as many pitches as high school hurlers, so a separate pitch count was established this week.
As incoming freshmen, WPIAL basketball’s 2023 class already looks special
Early indications say the WPIAL Class of 2023 will be special.
PIAA denies request to add games to baseball regular season
The high school baseball regular season will continue to have a 20-game limit after the PIAA denied a request to add more contests.
Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018-19 boys outdoor track season
July 18, 2019
Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton became the most talked about track star in the WPIAL this spring, a situation neither he nor his father could have imagined.
Trinity’s Riley DeRubbo commits to Atlantic 10 champion Fordham
July 17, 2019
A year after tearing an ACL, Trinity basketball standout Riley DeRubbo celebrated another milestone Wednesday when she committed to Atlantic 10 champion Fordham.
PIAA doesn’t support ‘diagonal’ pilot program for WPIAL soccer officials
WPIAL soccer referees must keep using the “double dual” officiating system, at least for now.
PIAA eligibility hearing for Moon’s Donovan Johnson postponed
The PIAA hearing scheduled Wednesday for Moon basketball standout Donovan Johnson was postponed.
Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018-19 girls outdoor track season
July 16, 2019
Maybe the biggest story of track season came months earlier when the WPIAL decided to move the individual championship meet to Slippery Rock.
Thomas Jefferson QB Shane Stump adds 3rd Division I offer
Thomas Jefferson’s Shane Stump, one of the WPIAL’s top quarterbacks, announced his third college offer from Dayton.
North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch adds 4 more basketball offers
Four more names joined the list of Division I basketball teams recruiting North Allegheny’s Lizzy Groetsch.
PIAA schedules eligibility hearing for West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson
West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson will learn this month whether he can play football in the fall.
WPIAL declares two-sport Belle Vernon transfer Devin Whitlock eligible
July 15, 2019
Belle Vernon sophomore Devin Whitlock, a two-sport standout who transferred from Monessen, is eligible to play football and basketball this upcoming school year.
WPIAL leading scorer Keandre Bowles commits to junior college in Kansas
July 14, 2019
The WPIAL’s leading scorer is headed to the Great Plains.
Bishop Canevin’s Diajha Allen commits to St. Francis (Pa.)
Bishop Canevin’s Diajha Allen, a rising senior, announced her commitment to St. Francis (Pa.) basketball Sunday.
Bethel Park’s Olivia Westphal adds 4 more basketball offers
Bethel Park’s Olivia Westphal added several more names to her scholarship list Sunday.
Chartiers Valley’s Aislin Malcolm adds WVU basketball offer
Chartiers Valley basketball standout Aislin Malcolm, one of the WPIAL’s top rising sophomores, received an offer Sunday from West Virginia.
North Allegheny senior lineman Lugg forges his own path
North Allegheny’s Jake Lugg plays left tackle for the Tigers like older brother, Josh, did a few years earlier.
WPIAL soccer referees will switch to diagonal system, if PIAA approves
The WPIAL could change the way soccer games are officiated next season, if the PIAA approves.
PIAA baseball committee wants games added to regular season
July 13, 2019
Pennsylvania high school baseball teams could play a few more regular-season games next season, if the PIAA baseball steering committee gets its wish.
Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018-19 boys basketball season
July 12, 2019
With Moon and Mars leading the way, it’s safe to say the 2018-19 WPIAL boys basketball season was out of this world.
PIAA schedules appeal hearing for Moon’s Donovan Johnson
Basketball star Donovan Johnson will learn next week whether he can play his senior season at Moon.
After 2 years without, light towers return to Northgate’s stadium
Northgate football coach Michael Fulmore was headed home after a summer workout when something high in the Bellevue sky grabbed his attention.
While awaiting PIAA eligibility hearing, West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson giving 100 percent effort
July 11, 2019
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 23 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
North Allegheny’s Luke Colella gives Ivy League another WPIAL football recruit
July 10, 2019
Once a Tiger, always a Tiger?
Central Catholic baseball’s Will Ray commits to Wake Forest
July 9, 2019
Central Catholic’s Will Ray is the lastest WPIAL baseball recruit heading south.
NFHS expands exchange zones for some track relays
July 8, 2019
Some sprinters will have an extra 10 meters to make their relay exchange, the National Federation of State High School Associations decided.
Woodland Hills AD among candidates to coach boys basketball team
July 7, 2019
Woodland Hills’ next boys basketball coach might already work in the school’s athletic department.
Week Zero football showcase at Wolvarena expands to 2nd venue
The Western Pennsylvania vs. Everyone Football Showcase is officially too big for one stadium.
2 WPIAL football recruits announce 1st Division I offers from St. Francis
Two rising seniors in the WPIAL each received their first Division I football offers this week from St. Francis.
Like famous uncle, Central Catholic’s Elliot Donald seems poised for ‘great things’
July 6, 2019
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 23 during Trib HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
Pine-Richland pitcher Tommy Beam commits to West Virginia
July 5, 2019
Pine-Richland pitcher Tommy Beam, who helped the Rams win a WPIAL title this spring, committed Friday to West Virginia.
Trib HSSN rewind: A look back at the 2018 football season
July 1, 2019
Fifteen years had passed since Darrelle Revis last played WPIAL football, but his name came up often last December in Hershey.
Former North Allegheny track star Ayden Owens transferring to Michigan
Ayden Owens enjoyed his freshman year on the West Coast, the warm weather and the Los Angeles lifestyle.
Incoming North Allegheny freshman announces Division 1 basketball offer
June 30, 2019
North Allegheny’s Jasmine Timmerson hasn’t started high school but already has a Division 1 basketball offer.
Trinity basketball’s Riley DeRubbo adds St. Francis offer
Trinity’s Riley DeRubbo, who missed most of her junior basketball season after knee surgery, has added another Division 1 offer.
Pennsylvania has nation’s No. 1-ranked small school football team
Defending PIAA champion Southern Columbia was ranked Sunday as the No. 1 small school football team in the country by the website High School Football America.
2 WPIAL schools honored nationally in preseason football rankings
WPIAL football teams Penn Hills and Pine-Richland were recognized by High School Football American in its national preseason rankings.
Aliquippa’s Devonshire named Trib HSSN Boys Athlete of the Year
MJ Devonshire might be too humble to rank himself among the high school greats from Aliquippa, but his accomplishments speak for themselves.
Looking back at the top 15 high school sports stories of the 2018-19 school year
June 29, 2019
8.6.18
Mars basketball’s Bella Pelaia commits to Mount St. Mary’s
June 28, 2019
For the third time in three years, the Mars girls basketball team has a Division 1 recruit.
Ex-Blackhawk baseball star Brendan McKay making major league debut
As the Trib’s player of the year in 2014, Blackhawk’s Brendan McKay was asked to predict where he saw himself in five years.
Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty grows along with expectations
June 27, 2019
The Tribune-Review and the TribLive High School Sports Network are profiling each member of the 25-player Trib HSSN Preseason Football All-Star team. The players will be recognized July 23 during HSSN Media Day at Kennywood Park.
North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens leaving Southern Cal after stellar freshman year
North Allegheny grad Ayden Owens, who earned Pac-12 Freshman of the Year track honors this spring, announced Wednesday that he’s transferring from Southern Cal.
North Allegheny lineman Jake Lugg chooses Ivy League football
June 26, 2019
The Ivy League added a top WPIAL lineman for the second time in two days when North Allegheny’s Jake Lugg committed Wednesday to Harvard.
Thomas Jefferson lineman Mac Duda commits to Ivy League champion
Thomas Jefferson lineman Mac Duda, who counted all eight Ivy League schools among his offers, committed Tuesday to Princeton.
Peters Township’s Joe Maize resigns as baseball coach after 35 years
June 25, 2019
A sign in Joe Maize’s game room reminds visitors that “Baseball Lives Here,” an item he picked up while visiting Cooperstown, N.Y.
2 WPIAL basketball recruits named in updated ESPN rankings for 2020
June 24, 2019
Two WPIAL basketball recruits received spots close together in updated ESPN 100 rankings for the 2020 class.
Head of the Class: Baseball Player and Coach of the Year for each classification
The WPIAL baseball playoffs were as unpredictable as ever this season with only one top-seeded team winning a title.
Woodland Hills tight end Josh Rawlings commits to Virginia over ACC rivals
June 23, 2019
Virginia was the first Power 5 program to offer Woodland Hills’ Josh Rawlings a football scholarship in December.
Serra Catholic’s Mark Black named Trib HSSN Baseball Player of the Year
The Youghiogheny runs beyond the outfield fence at Boston Field in McKeesport, the home for Serra Catholic baseball.
WPIAL’s youth movement shows in 2019 Trib HSSN baseball all-stars
WPIAL baseball has witnessed an influx of talented freshmen in recent years and their arrival is reflected in the Trib 10.
West Mifflin standout Nahki Johnson among 2 ruled ineligible by WPIAL
June 20, 2019
West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson and Gateway’s Diego Bledsoe played football together last season at Steel Valley before each transferred elsewhere.
WPIAL awards playoff eligibility to Kiski, Gateway football transfers
The WPIAL ruled Kiski Area’s Kenneth Blake and Gateway’s Shane Thrift fully eligible to play football this fall following separate hearings Thursday at the league office in Green Tree.
WPIAL declares Belle Vernon multi-sport standout Devin Whitlock ineligible
June 18, 2019
Multi-sport standout Devin Whitlock, who transferred from Monessen to Belle Vernon after his freshman year, was ruled ineligible by the WPIAL.
North Catholic’s Tess Myers follows family tradition, commits to Duquesne
June 17, 2019
Four decades after her father committed to Duquesne, North Catholic’s Tess Myers committed Monday to play basketball for the Dukes.
Moon’s Donovan Johnson remains ineligible after WPIAL denies waiver request
The WPIAL denied Donovan Johnson’s waiver request Monday, leaving the Moon basketball star ineligible for his senior season.
Mars’ Michael Carmody, WPIAL’s top-ranked football recruit, commits to Notre Dame
June 16, 2019
Almost two years to the day that Robby Carmody committed to Notre Dame basketball, his younger brother Michael committed Sunday to play football for the Fighting Irish.
How public-private legislation would alter Pa. high school sports landscape
June 15, 2019
In the hot-button debate over public and private school athletics, the PIAA has consistently said state legislation from 1972 prevents the organization from splitting the schools into separate playoffs.
Seneca Valley lineman Josh Kaltenberger commits to Purdue
Seneca Valley’s Josh Kaltenberger received his first Power 5 offer Tuesday from Purdue.
West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson among 5 scheduled for WPIAL hearings Thursday
Football standout Nahki Johnson, who transferred from Steel Valley to West Mifflin in December, will have his eligibility decided Thursday in a hearing at the WPIAL office.
Devon Prep avoids Serra star Mark Black in 7th, dashes Eagles’ PIAA title hopes
June 14, 2019
UNIVERSITY PARK — Devon Prep challenged Serra Catholic star Mark Black three times Friday, but with two outs in the seventh and first base open, there was no reason to take that chance again.
‘Nightmarish’ inning costs Beaver in PIAA championship loss to Selinsgrove
UNIVERSITY PARK — This season was mostly a dream come true until the fifth inning Friday, which felt quite the opposite.
West Perry’s walk-off win dashes Elizabeth Forward’s state title hopes
June 13, 2019
UNIVERSITY PARK — In his 41 years as a softball coach, Elizabeth Forward’s Harry Rutherford had never seen a play quite like this.
Scott Dibble resigns as Canevin basketball coach, heads to NBA Finals, U.S. Open
Scott Dibble resigned as Bishop Canevin’s girls basketball coach but that didn’t leave his calendar wide open.
Frazier softball’s state championship game moved to Friday as PIAA revamps schedule
UNIVERSITY PARK — The PIAA rearranged its softball and baseball championships schedule Thursday and postponed two games to Friday after rain soaked Penn State’s campus.
WPIAL basketball star Isiah Warfield transferring from Sewickley Academy
June 12, 2019
WPIAL basketball standout Isiah Warfield, a 25-point scorer last season at Sewickley Academy, has transferred home to Central Valley for his senior year.
Legislation to split public, private school sports ‘poorly crafted,’ PIAA exec says
June 11, 2019
Legislation introduced Tuesday to split public and private high school athletics was “poorly crafted” and an “end-around of the (State Athletic) Oversight Committee,” said PIAA executive director Bob Lombardi.
High school sports proposal would separate public, private playoffs, ax PIAA transfer restrictions
Public and private high schools will compete for separate state championships, and strict transfer rules will vanish under the “Parity in Interscholastic Athletics Act” introduced Tuesday by a Western Pennsylvania state representative.
Western Pa. representative readies legislation to separate private, public school playoffs
June 10, 2019
The executive director of the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference sat down with outspoken public school advocates in February for a frank conversation about the current PIAA playoff system.
PIAA postpones all baseball, softball semifinals involving WPIAL teams
The PIAA postponed many of Monday’s baseball and softball semifinals because of weather to Tuesday, including all involving WPIAL teams.
Central Catholic defensive end A.J. Beatty commits to North Carolina
June 9, 2019
Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty, who announced more Division 1 offers than any WPIAL football recruit in the 2020 class, cut his long list down to one.
Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher adds 5th ACC scholarship offer
Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher added his fifth ACC offer this week.
Union lineman Aaron Gunn announces Michigan State offer
Union’s Aaron Gunn, a rising junior who’s recruiting stock is also on the rise, announced an offer from Michigan State.
Baseball semifinal sites, times: WPIAL Class 2A finalists rematch at West Mifflin
June 7, 2019
Twelve days after Seton LaSalle defeated Serra Catholic in the WPIAL championship, the section rivals will rematch in the state semifinals.
Softball semifinal sites, times: 6 WPIAL teams 1 victory away from PIAA finals
Hempfield is one win away from its fourth consecutive appearance in the state softball championships.
North Allegheny capitalizes on errors to defeat rival Pine-Richland
June 6, 2019
Twelve errors in three games will eventually catch up to any baseball team, even a talented WPIAL champion.
Pine-Richland sack leader Miguel Jackson announces 1st Division 1 offer
Pine-Richland sack leader Miguel Jackson, who earned all-conference recognition last season as a sophomore, announced his first Division 1 offer Wednesday from Akron.
PIAA postpones 3 softball playoff games, moves Class 6A baseball quarterfinal
The PIAA postponed three softball games scheduled Thursday at Slippery Rock University and moved the North Allegheny vs. Pine-Richland baseball game to a different site.
WPIAL suspends McKeesport basketball assistant 1 year for recruiting
June 5, 2019
McKeesport pays Troy Blackwell to convince charter school students to return to the school district, but the WPIAL ruled Wednesday that the assistant girls basketball coach’s efforts violated recruiting rules.
WPIAL delays eligibility decision on Moon basketball star Donovan Johnson
Donovan Johnson’s senior season remains in limbo.
Central Catholic basketball coach avoids 1-year suspension, must sit 2 games
Central Catholic boys basketball coach Brian Urso avoided a one-year ban for recruiting, but the WPIAL still wants him suspended for a scrimmage and two regular-season games next season.
Softball sites, times: 11 WPIAL teams reach PIAA quarterfinals
June 4, 2019
WPIAL softball champions Laurel, West Greene and Elizabeth Forward will take part in a PIAA playoff tripleheader Thursday at Slippery Rock University.
Baseball sites, times: North Allegheny, Pine-Richland rematch in quarterfinals
Section rivals Pine-Richland and North Allegheny will rematch Thursday in a PIAA Class 6A baseball quarterfinal at LaRoche College.
Pine-Richland defeats Penn-Trafford to claim 6th WPIAL baseball title
With Wild Things Park stuck under a layer of rain clouds, Penn-Trafford and Pine-Richland waited an extra day to play their WPIAL baseball championship.
4 days after winning WPIAL baseball title, Shaler’s emotional postseason run ends
June 3, 2019
When Shaler’s championship season ended abruptly Monday, baseball coach Brian Junker gathered his players in right field and simply told them “thank you.”
Valparaiso recruits WPIAL with help from former Western Pa. standout
June 2, 2019
Football coaches at Notre Dame and Ball State have found success recruiting the WPIAL, but now another Indiana school has joined the picture.
Paul Posluszny, Sean Lee enjoy ‘special’ night at WPIAL Hall of Fame induction
June 1, 2019
Paul Posluszny and Sean Lee were teammates at Penn State, groomsmen in each other’s weddings and close friends throughout their NFL days.
Plenty of reasons to celebrate for NFBD All-Star players
If Hollis Mathis scores an all-star game touchdown Sunday, he might have to call somebody immediately.
Softball sites, times: 4 WPIAL teams headed to Penn State’s Beard Field for PIAA openers
Four WPIAL softball teams will take an early look at the state championship site.
Shady Side’s Melissa Riggins among 9 WPIAL girls named PTFCA all-state
May 31, 2019
Shady Side Academy runner Melissa Riggins, who set a meet record at the PIAA Class AA track and field championships last week, earned first-team all-state honors from the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.
North Allegheny’s Zach Kinne leads WPIAL boys on PTFCA all-state team
North Allegheny’s Zach Kinne, the WPIAL and PIAA Class AAA champion in the 3,200 meters, was named a first-team all-state selection by the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association.
Baseball sites, times: PIAA schedules tripleheaders at Latrobe, Butler
Pullman Park in Butler and Latrobe high school will host tripleheaders Monday in the first round of the state baseball playoffs.
Pine-Richland defeats Penn-Trafford to claim 6th WPIAL baseball title
May 30, 2019
With Wild Things Park stuck under a layer of rain clouds, Penn-Trafford and Pine-Richland waited an extra day to play their WPIAL baseball championship.
Beaver rolls past section rival Blackhawk for 4th WPIAL baseball title
May 29, 2019
Six runs was the unofficial goal, but Beaver reached that by the fourth inning and the number just kept going higher.
WPIAL changes start time for Class 3A softball final between Avonworth, Keystone Oaks
With rain in the forecast, the WPIAL moved up the start time for the Class 3A softball final Wednesday at Peterswood Park.
WPIAL Class 4A baseball final preview: Blackhawk vs. Beaver
WPIAL Class 4A baseball championship
Steel Valley captures 2nd WPIAL baseball title with comeback victory over Hopewell
May 28, 2019
Steel Valley has a knack for championship comebacks.
Aliquippa’s Devonshire among top names playing in Big 33 Classic
May 26, 2019
Track season ended Saturday for Aliquippa’s M.J. Devonshire, who won state titles in the 100- and 200-meter dashes at the PIAA championship.
Final results from 2019 PIAA track and field championships
Track and field
PIAA recap: WPIAL athletes win 11 events at state track championships
The weekend started slowly but WPIAL athletes rallied on Saturday and won 11 events at the PIAA track and field championships in Shippensburg.
Burrell 400 relay breaks school record, wins PIAA gold
May 25, 2019
SHIPPENSBURG — Burrell sprinter Jocelyn Vickers ran her opening leg of the 400-meter relay and then hurried toward the finish line to wait for her team’s baton to arrive.
Avonworth/Northgate’s Hayden Robinson finds ‘relief’ in 100-meter victory at PIAAs
SHIPPENSBURG — There, of course, was happiness and excitement as Hayden Robinson crossed the finish line first at Seth Grove Stadium.
Aliquippa sprinter M.J. Devonshire wins gold in 100, 200 at PIAA championship
SHIPPENSBURG — Aliquippa has a storied history of all-time great all-around athletes who wore the Quips’ red and black.
North Allegheny’s Zach Kinne leads 5 WPIAL runners on 3,200 medal podium at PIAAs
SHIPPENSBURG — North Allegheny’s Zachary Kinne was running at Seth Grove Stadium, otherwise the state championship sure felt a lot like the WPIAL meet.
Brownsville’s Gionna Quarzo defends 3,200 title in record time at PIAA Class AA championship
Brownsville’s Gionna Quarzo heard a voice from above helping her set a meet record Saturday at the PIAA track and field championships.
No WPIAL athletes win PIAA titles on Day 1, Beaver’s Emma Pavelek comes very close
May 24, 2019
SHIPPENSBURG — Beaver sophomore Emma Pavelek leaped plenty high enough to win a state title, matching her top rival jump for jump at Seth Grove Stadium.
Burrell’s Sharrow redeems herself in 300 hurdles, advances to PIAA finals
SHIPPENSBURG — Burrell’s Kaylen Sharrow stumbled to the finish line last year at Seth Grove Stadium and then waited nervously, hoping to hear her named called for the 300-meter finals.
WPIAL controversy settled, Waynesburg hurdler has ‘something to prove to myself’ at PIAAs
This week was calmer than last for WPIAL champion hurdler and pole vaulter Daniel Layton, but it wasn’t without incident.
WPIAL sprint champion Hayden Robinson among favorites for PIAA gold
May 23, 2019
Hayden Robinson has one goal for her final trip to Shippensburg.
Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green commits to Michigan
Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green committed Thursday to Michigan.
Mars celebrates 11th-inning victory over top-seeded West Allegheny in 5A playoffs
May 22, 2019
Four hours after first pitch, long after the sun had set, Mars players and fans joined together on Burkett Field to celebrate their 11-inning victory in the WPIAL baseball playoffs.
Bach sharp as Yough takes down South Park in Class 4A quarterfinals
May 20, 2019
Jarett Bach’s first-round start didn’t meet his high standards, but Monday’s was surely one of his best.
Plum sophomore Kennedie Montue receives 1st Division 1 basketball offer
May 19, 2019
Plum sophomore Kennedie Montue, the team’s leading scorer two years in a row, announced her first Division 1 basketball offer Sunday from Marshall.
Western Pa.-connected Colorado State offers WPIAL offensive linemen
Western Pennsylvania football fans probably know Colorado State as the alma mater of former Steelers linebacker Joey Porter.
University Prep’s Michael Snowden lists first FBS football offer
College recruiters are chasing after Westinghouse’s Dayon Hayes, but he’s not the only Division 1 football prospect in the City League.
Former Pine-Richland, West A standout Kenny White announces Akron offer
Former Pine-Richland and West Allegheny football standout Kenny White, now a junior college freshman, announced a scholarship offer from Akron.
Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green includes Pitt among Top 5 schools
May 18, 2019
Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green, who ranked among the WPIAL’s top college recruits before transferring out of state, announced a Top 5 list Friday that included Pitt and four Big Ten schools.
Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty narrows lengthy offers list to 7 favorites
May 17, 2019
Central Catholic junior A.J. Beatty, who leads WPIAL football recruits with more than 40 combined FBS and FCS offers, narrowed his lengthy list Friday.
Baldwin’s Brendan O’Malley earns bragging rights by winning 3 WPIAL gold medals
Brendan O’Malley’s twin brother Bailey won WPIAL gold last season and defended his shot put title again Thursday.
South Park’s Maura Huwalt leads multiple winners at WPIAL championships with 3 gold medals
May 16, 2019
As a six-time WPIAL champion, South Park’s Maura Huwalt now ranks among the most accomplished throwers in WPIAL history.
Aliquippa’s M.J. Devonshire wins 3 golds, replaces Quips great in record book
Breaking a WPIAL record made M.J. Devonshire smile, but what he liked most was that he’d supplanted a fellow Quips great.
Citing ‘something to prove,’ Waynesburg’s Layton defends WPIAL hurdles title
Waynesburg hurdler Daniel Layton tried not to think about his stressful week when standing at the starting line.
PIAA overturns WPIAL, Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton can defend hurdles title
May 15, 2019
A clerical error will not prevent Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton from defending his WPIAL title in the 110-meter hurdles, the PIAA decided Wednesday.
Moon basketball’s Donovan Johnson receives North Carolina scholarship offer
May 14, 2019
Hours after earning all-state player of the year honors, Moon’s Donovan Johnson received a scholarship offer from North Carolina.
Moon’s Donovan Johnson leads all-state basketball selections as Pa. Player of the Year in Class 5A
Moon’s Donovan Johnson was named as the state’s Class 5A boys basketball player of the year Tuesday and Adam Kaufman was named coach of the year after leading the Tigers to a PIAA title in March.
WPIAL wants to hear from 2 basketball coaches facing recruiting allegations
May 13, 2019
The WPIAL board voted Monday to schedule hearings for two basketball programs facing recruiting allegations.
Waynesburg hurdler Daniel Layton turns to PIAA after WPIAL denies his request
Waynesburg’s Daniel Layton won’t be able to defend his WPIAL hurdles title unless the PIAA intervenes.
West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson receives 2nd football offer from Big 12 school
West Mifflin sophomore Nahki Johnson announced his second Big 12 football offer this week.
Blackhawk safety Marques Watson-Trent announces first FBS offer
May 12, 2019
Blackhawk’s Marques Watson-Trent, an all-conference safety and running back, received his first FBS offer this week.
USA Today releases “Way-Too-Early” high school football rankings
Football season is still months away, but USA Today released its “Way-Too-Early” high school rankings this week.
Union lineman Aaron Gunn adds 2nd Power 5 offer
One of the WPIAL’s smallest schools features one of the WPIAL’s biggest sophomores.
Upper St. Clair, Oakland Catholic seeded No. 1 for WPIAL girls lacrosse playoffs
Oakland Catholic and Upper St. Clair earned the No. 1 seeds in the WPIAL girls lacrosse brackets revealed Friday.
Penn-Trafford, West Allegheny among No. 1 seeds in WPIAL baseball playoff brackets
Penn-Trafford, West Allegheny, Greensburg Salem, Freeport, Shenango and California received No. 1 seeds Friday when the WPIAL revealed baseball playoff brackets.
Butler’s Ethan Morton latest WPIAL basketball recruit headed out of state
May 9, 2019
The WPIAL doesn’t produce an abundance of major-college men’s basketball recruits, but it has seen its share of three- and four-star prospects in recent years.
Butler basketball star Ethan Morton commits to Purdue
Rarely does the WPIAL have a basketball star whose recruitment stretches nearly coast to coast.
North Allegheny, Penn-Trafford earn No. 1 seeds in WPIAL softball playoffs
North Allegheny, Penn-Trafford, Mt. Pleasant, Avonworth, Chartiers-Houston and West Greene received No. 1 seeds Thursday when the WPIAL revealed softball playoff brackets.
North Allegheny, Mars receive top seeds in WPIAL boys lacrosse playoffs
North Allegheny and Mars received the top seeds Thursday when the WPIAL revealed brackets for the boys lacrosse playoffs.
Bishop Canevin hires football coach T.J. Wiley
May 8, 2019
Former Northgate, Deer Lakes and Penn-Trafford football coach T.J. Wiley is headed to Bishop Canevin.
3rd WPIAL baseball team forfeits after violating pitch-count rule
May 7, 2019
Two weeks after defeating section-leading Hopewell, Beaver Falls gave the victory back.
Butler basketball star Ethan Morton will make his college decision this week
Butler basketball star Ethan Morton holds nearly two dozen scholarship offers, having added one after another since Cleveland State gave him his first three summers ago.
North Catholic basketball teammates add offers just before recruiting shutdown
May 6, 2019
A week-long recruiting shutdown starts Monday for NCAA women’s basketball coaches, but North Catholic teammates Tess Myers and Kylee Lewandowski each pulled in an offer just before the deadline.
Texas A&M targets linemen from WPIAL, City League
May 5, 2019
With NFL first-round picks Myles Garrett, Mike Evans and Von Miller all recent Aggies, Texas A&M football coaches can make a strong nationwide pitch to recruits.
Public school advocates plan another ‘athletic equity’ summit
Public school advocates are planning another statewide summit this summer to further their campaign to create separate PIAA playoffs.
Notre Dame offers another Carmody — this time for football
Could Notre Dame recruit two Carmody brothers?
East-West game gives 16 WPIAL football players 1 last go-round
May 4, 2019
May isn’t typical football season in Western Pennsylvania, but it is for 68 seniors from across the state who will gather Sunday in Altoona.
WPIAL baseball rankings for week of May 5, 2019
Here are this week’s Trib HSSN baseball rankings:
Pitch-count confusion forces another WPIAL baseball team to forfeit
May 1, 2019
The PIAA’s new pitch-count rule forced another WPIAL baseball team to forfeit.
Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty adds 40th offer, sets date to announce favorites
A.J. Beatty’s scholarship total has climbed for weeks, but the Central Catholic junior will start narrowing his options soon.
Central Catholic’s Elliot Donald adds West Virginia, Syracuse offers
April 28, 2019
Elliot Donald’s uncle ranks among Pitt’s all-time greats, but that didn’t stop West Virginia from recruiting him.
Nebraska football makes recruiting push into Western Pennsylvania
Nebraska’s football roster lists 75 players from the Cornhusker State and a number of others from the midwest, but coach Scott Frost’s staff is making a push in Pennsylvania.
WPIAL baseball rankings for week of April 28, 2019
April 27, 2019
Here’s a look at this week’s Trib HSSN WPIAL baseball rankings:
Latrobe’s Williams leaves home track as big winner at WCCA meet
Latrobe sprinter Zakharee Williams always has considered himself a strong finisher.
Winning 300 hurdles at WCCA meet a breeze for Burrell’s Sharrow
As Burrell’s Kaylen Sharrow stood at the starting line, the hurdlers in the other lanes weren’t what concerned her most.
PBC Roundball welcomes several elite players for pair of games Saturday
April 26, 2019
The public address announcer gave Moses Malone a Roundball Classic introduction of Biblical proportions.
West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson announces Pitt, West Virginia offers hours apart
April 24, 2019
West Mifflin sophomore Nahki Johnson could watch the recruiting version of the Backyard Brawl.
Central Catholic hires college assistant as boys basketball coach
Central Catholic dipped into the college ranks Wednesday and hired Brian Urso as boys basketball coach.
100 or 105? Confusion over pitch-count rule forces WPIAL baseball team to forfeit
When the PIAA increased the baseball pitch count from 100 to 105 last summer, that change affected only the playoffs.
Senior season in question for Moon basketball star Donovan Johnson
April 23, 2019
Moon junior Donovan Johnson won a state basketball title this winter as one of the best players in the WPIAL, but his eligibility for next season is in question.
Woodland Hills TE Josh Rawlings names Pitt among his ‘Elite 8’
April 21, 2019
Woodland Hills junior Josh Rawlings, a football recruit with more than two dozen offers, announced Sunday a Top 8 list of favorites that included Pitt.
Butler’s Ethan Morton draws recognition from USA Today, MaxPreps
Butler basketball star Ethan Morton was named to USA Today’s All-Pennsylvania team — one of two honors the junior received this week.
In issue of separating public, private schools, PIAA wants time
April 19, 2019
The PIAA administration is watching closely as a state legislator wades into the public vs. private debate, but it would rather see its own competitive-balance efforts given time to work.
Westinghouse’s Dayon Hayes adds Penn State offer, drawing recruiters to City League
Westinghouse junior Dayon Hayes is becoming the hottest City League football recruit in years.
Greensburg Salem’s Malia Anderson runs state’s fastest 800 meters at Butler Invitational
Greensburg Salem senior Malia Anderson ran the fastest time in the state this season to win the girls 800 meters Thursday at the Butler Invitational.
Seneca Valley AD Heather Lewis joining WPIAL board of directors
April 18, 2019
Seneca Valley athletic director Heather Lewis is the only newcomer voted onto the WPIAL board of directors this year in election results revealed Wednesday.
Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher gains popularity with ACC, Big 10 football coaches
Aliquippa junior Zuriah Fisher is popular with ACC and Big 10 football coaches.
WPIAL requests eligibility hearing for West Mifflin transfer Nahki Johnson
The WPIAL board voted Wednesday to hold an eligibility hearing for West Mifflin sophomore Nahki Johnson.
Decline in ticket sales hurts WPIAL budget, limits money shared back to schools
Penn Hills, Pine-Richland and Butler will receive more than $5,000 apiece from the WPIAL as part of its annual share-back program from playoff gate ticket revenues.
WPIAL softball championships headed to Peterswood Park for 2019
April 17, 2019
The WPIAL softball championships are headed to Peterswood Park in Peters Township next month.
WPIAL awards $1,000 scholarships to 20 scholar-athletes
The WPIAL announced the 20 winners of its annual scholar-athlete scholarship contest. Each receives $1,000 and will be honored at a banquet May 13 at the DoubleTree in Green Tree.
Peterswood Park chosen to host WPIAL softball championships
Peterswood Park in Peters Township will host the WPIAL softball championships next month.
Bill Sinning retiring after 14 years overseeing WPIAL playoff officials
Bill Sinning has overseen WPIAL officials since 2006, but the retired basketball referee will leave that task to someone else next year.
Pitt coaches pursue another Baldwin lineman, extend offer to sophomore
April 16, 2019
From Dave Wannstedt to Jason Pinkston, Baldwin and Pitt have had a number of links through the years.
Seneca Valley’s Josh Kaltenberger nears dozen Division 1 football offers
April 14, 2019
Seneca Valley junior Josh Kaltenberger, one of the state’s top centers, is quickly approaching a dozen Division 1 football offers.
Peters Township girls basketball ends perfect season ranked No. 24 nationally
Undefeated record, WPIAL championship, state championship and national ranking.
2 WPIAL sophomores rank among nation’s top football recruits for 2021
Two WPIAL sophomores were ranked this week among the nation’s top football recruits by 247Sports in the websites list of 2021 prospects.
Waynesburg’s Scott Benco claims top distance in state javelin rankings
Waynesburg javelin thrower Scott Benco took over the top spot in the state rankings with a 192-foot, 6-inch toss Saturday, a distance that also ranks him among the nation’s best this season.
Central Catholic sophomore Elliot Donald announces Wisconsin football offer
Paul Chryst left Western Pennsylvania five years ago, but the former Pitt coach still recruits the WPIAL.
WPIAL switches 2 Class A nonconference football matchups
The WPIAL let four Class A football teams flip their Week 9 nonconference opponents to create better matchups.
Peters Township’s Makenna Marisa earns All-American honors from MaxPreps
Peters Township’s Makenna Marisa earned All-American honors from MaxPreps which named the senior as one of the nation’s Top 50 girls basketball players.
Oakland Catholic’s Jayla Ellis earns 4 medals, sets record at TSTCA championship
Two first-place medals, two seconds and a meet record caused Oakland Catholic’s Jayla Ellis to smile Saturday, but so did a candid compliment from her coach.
2 WPIAL girls javelin champions headline Tri-State Track Coaches Championship
April 12, 2019
The girls javelin field at the TSTCA Outdoor Championship will have two defending WPIAL champions Saturday with Elizabeth Forward’s Brianna Spirnak and South Park’s Maura Huwalt each scheduled to throw at West Mifflin.
Seneca Valley, North Allegheny ADs among 18 candidates vying for WPIAL board
Seneca Valley athletic director Heather Lewis and North Allegheny athletic director Bob Bozzuto are among the school administrators seeking to join the WPIAL board of directors this summer.
Olympian Lauryn Williams among 11 entering Beaver County Sports Hall
Olympian Lauryn Williams, a Rochester native who won medals in both the Summer and Winter Games, is among 11 inductees set to enter the Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame this month.
Allderdice selects former Central Catholic assistant Devin Crummie as boys basketball coach
April 10, 2019
Devin Crummie, a longtime assistant boys basketball coach at Central Catholic, is headed to Allderdice.
Sister vs. sister: ‘Sibling rivalry’ as North Catholic softball hosts Ellwood City
April 9, 2019
Adrienne and Angie Nardone will share a softball field Wednesday afternoon when Ellwood City visits North Catholic.WPIAL denies postseason eligibility to 3 softball players after transfers
April 7, 2019
The WPIAL denied postseason eligibility to three softball players under the new PIAA rule that makes transfers ineligible unless they qualify for a specific waiver.
Former North Catholic linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green adds 11th offer since March 1
Former North Catholic standout Nikhai Hill-Green left Pennsylvania this winter, but college recruiters have found him in Maryland.
Peters Township freshman Journey Thompson adds 2nd basketball offer
Journey Thompson’s remarkable spring continues.
Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty announces SEC football offer
Central Catholic defensive end A.J. Beatty announced his first SEC offer Saturday, adding to a growing list that already includes ACC, Big 10 and Big 12 schools.
TribLive HSSN Boys Basketball Player of the Year: Moon’s Donovan Johnson
Donovan Johnson’s storybook season had a major plot twist near the end.
TribLive HSSN Girls Basketball Player of the Year: Peters Township’s Makenna Marisa
Makenna Marisa was dominant all season long, but the Peters Township senior seemingly saved her best for under the bright Giant Center lights in Hershey.
West Mifflin’s Nahki Johnson announces ACC football offer
West Mifflin sophomore Nahki Johnson, who won a WPIAL football title last fall at Steel Valley, added his first Power 5 scholarship offer Saturday.
2 perfect seasons help shape Trib 10 girls basketball all-star team
April 6, 2019
One word can describe both Peters Township and Chartiers Valley: Perfect.
3 high-scoring juniors join senior-heavy Trib 10 boys basketball all-stars
Western Pennsylvania had no shortage of standout scorers this season.
Trib HSSN WPIAL baseball rankings for week of April 7, 2019
Baseball rankings
Ousted at West Mifflin, football coach Ray Braszo returns to roots in Steel Valley
April 3, 2019
Ray Braszo wore West Mifflin blue and gold for nearly three decades, but the veteran football coach also has deep roots in Steel Valley.
North Allegheny runner posts early-season time to beat in 3,200 meters
March 31, 2019
Outdoor track season is only two weekends old, but elite North Allegheny runner Zach Kinne already holds the state’s top time in the 3,200 meters.
Central Catholic’s A.J. Beatty nears 3 dozen offers with ACC, Big 10, Big 12 options
The offers keep coming for Central Catholic junior A.J. Beatty.
Pine-Richland’s Dan Petcash commits to Binghamton
Pine-Richland’s Dan Petcash, one of the WPIAL’s top seniors, committed Sunday to Binghamton.
Bethel Park’s Maddie Dziezgowski commits to St. Bonaventure
Bethel Park junior Maddie Dziezgowski, who helped the Black Hawks reach the WPIAL girls basketball semifinals, announced her commitment Saturday to St. Bonaventure.
Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher becomes 2nd WPIAL junior with Penn State offer
Aliquippa’s Zuriah Fisher became the second WPIAL junior with a Penn State football offer when the Nittany Lions joined his scholarship list Saturday.
Former Elizabeth Forward basketball standout Tre Mitchell commits to UMass
March 29, 2019
Former Elizabeth Forward basketball standout Tre Mitchell, who left the WPIAL for a prep school in Connecticut, committed to Massachusetts on Friday.
Arizona basketball offer adds to Donovan Johnson’s month of madness
March has brought more joy than madness for Moon’s Donovan Johnson and his family.
McKeesport’s Deamontae Diggs draws 1st FBS offer as Buffalo blankets WPIAL
March 28, 2019
Buffalo had two football players with Western Pennsylvania roots last season, but the Bulls coaches spent this week trying to boost that number.
Woodland Hills TE Joshua Rawlings sees 3rd Big 10 school join recruiting list
Woodland Hills junior Joshua Rawlings quickly became one of the WPIAL’s hottest football recruits.
North Catholic’s Tess Myers adds 8th college offer after reaching state finals
North Catholic’s Tess Myers, one of the WPIAL’s top juniors, added another Division I offer after leading her basketball team to the state finals.
Mars junior Michael Carmody adds 2 ACC, 2 SEC football offers
Mars junior lineman Michael Carmody added two more ACC and SEC football offers this week, pushing his scholarship total to more than two dozen.
Fresh off NCAA upset, Sewickley Academy’s Isiah Warfield commits to Liberty
March 27, 2019
Isiah Warfield didn’t fill out an NCAA tournament bracket but did urge others to pick against fifth-seeded Mississippi State in the first round.
Pitt coaches offer scholarship to Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher
Pitt football coaches in decades past found great success recruiting in Aliquippa, a list that starts with all-time greats Mike Ditka, Sean Gilbert and Darrelle Revis.
Bethel Park hires Brian DeLallo as new football coach
March 26, 2019
Bethel Park administrators talked with a handful of football coaches from outside the district, but decided that their best candidate already was on staff.
Chartiers Valley finishes perfect season with victory over Archbishop Carroll in PIAA finals
March 23, 2019
HERSHEY — Had he known girls were so easy to coach, Tim McConnell would have switched years ago, the longtime boys basketball coach told his team.
Lincoln Park hangs on for 1-point victory over Trinity in PIAA championship
HERSHEY — This wasn’t the first time Lincoln Park built a double-digit lead and then held its breath until the clock reached zeroes.
PIAA Class 5A girls championship breakdown: Chartiers Valley vs. Archbishop Carroll
PIAA Class 5A girls championship
PIAA Class 3A boys championship breakdown: Lincoln Park vs. Trinity
PIAA Class 3A boys championship
PIAA Class 4A girls championship breakdown: North Catholic vs. Bethlehem Catholic
PIAA Class 4A girls championship
Moon rallies in 4th quarter to defeat Archbishop Wood in PIAA Class 5A final
March 22, 2019
HERSHEY — Moon coach Adam Kaufman was certain that this win would shock folks around the state.
Bentworth promotes assistant Knabb to coach football team
Bentworth promoted assistant John “J.J.” Knabb to head football coach, said athletic director Brian Malecki.
PIAA Class 5A boys championship breakdown: Moon vs. Archbishop Wood
PIAA Class 5A boys basketball championship
PIAA Class 6A girls championship breakdown: Peters Township vs. Garnet Valley
PIAA Class 6A girls basketball championship
WPIAL title escaped Moon’s grasp, but PIAA championship now within reach
Moon faced a crossroads after the WPIAL finals, a moment when its basketball season could have gone many different directions.
Vincentian falls to Philadelphia’s Sankofa Freedom Academy in PIAA Class A final
March 21, 2019
HERSHEY — While preparing for the state finals, Vincentian Academy coach Tim Tyree studied two separate game films of Sankofa Freedom Academy.
PIAA Class A boys championship breakdown: Vincentian vs. Sankofa Freedom
PIAA Class A boys championship
Lincoln Park headed back to Hershey after PIAA semifinal win over Sharon
March 19, 2019
Lincoln Park’s Isaiah Smith launched a 3-pointer from deep in the left corner and then slapped the floor in celebration as his fourth-quarter shot squeezed through the rim.
Donovan Johnson scores 28, leads Moon past Mars in PIAA semifinals
March 18, 2019
Donovan Johnson and his Moon teammates left in tears after losing to Mars in the WPIAL championship three weekends ago.
5 things to watch in the PIAA basketball semifinals
Moon and Mars combined for a dramatic WPIAL boys basketball championship earlier this month.
PIAA girls basketball sites, times: Chartiers Valley, Thomas Jefferson rematch Tuesday
March 17, 2019
WPIAL champion Chartiers Valley and runner-up Thomas Jefferson will rematch at 7 p.m., Tuesday in a PIAA Class 5A semifinal at Peters Township.
PIAA boys basketball sites, times: 6 WPIAL teams reach state semifinals
New Castle’s field house will host a state semifinal two nights in a row.
Oscar Tshiebwe’s double-double leads Kennedy Catholic past Mt. Lebanon in PIAA quarterfinal
March 16, 2019
This state quarterfinal win over Mt. Lebanon, a 17-point victory against a WPIAL champion, “was a world-class butt-whipping,” said Kennedy Catholic coach Rick Mancino.
PIAA basketball sites, times: Mars vs. Moon boys semifinal at New Castle
The PIAA needed an out-of-this-world site for a state semifinal between Mars and Moon — or at least a gym with lots of seats.
Mars uses near-perfect 2nd half to defeat Meadville in PIAA quarterfinals
March 15, 2019
Mars coach Rob Carmody felt mixed emotions when Mars freshman Zach Schlegel let fly a 3-pointer with an 11-point lead and two minutes left.
Mt. Lebanon uses hold-the-ball strategy to defeat Allderdice in PIAA 2nd round
March 13, 2019
Mt. Lebanon had a one-point lead in the fourth quarter, so the Blue Devils did what they do best.
PIAA girls basketball sites, times: Peters Township vs. Norwin at Keystone Oaks
The PIAA scheduled Peters Township vs. Norwin girls as the late game in a boys/girls basketball doubleheader at Keystone Oaks on Friday night.
PIAA boys basketball sites, times: Mars, New Castle scheduled back-to-back
WPIAL champions Mars and New Castle will play back-to-back Friday night in a PIAA boys basketball doubleheader at Slippery Rock University.
Turnovers costly as Quaker Valley loses to Bishop McDevitt in PIAA 2nd round
March 12, 2019
HOLLIDAYSBURG — Bishop McDevitt forced 15 first-half turnovers and built a 20-point halftime lead in Tuesday night’s 79-47 victory over Quaker Valley in the PIAA Class 4A second round.
Mars survives foul trouble to defeat York William Penn in PIAA 2nd round
HOLLIDAYSBURG — Mars coach Rob Carmody wrote one word in bold letters on the whiteboard inside the locker room: Poise.
5 things to watch in PIAA boys basketball: WPIAL, City League clash
The WPIAL and City League champions will meet head-to-head Wednesday for the fourth year in a row in the PIAA boys basketball playoffs.
After reaching WPIAL finals, Seneca Valley linemen drawing college offers
March 11, 2019
Seneca Valley reached the WPIAL football finals last fall behind a strong offensive line, and college coaches have taken notice.
Quarzo, Anderson run personal bests at New Balance Nationals Indoor
March 10, 2019
Brownsville’s Gionna Quarzo and Greensburg Salem’s Malia Anderson, two of the WPIAL’s top runners, set personal bests Sunday at the New Balance Nationals Indoor in New York.
Sites, times posted for PIAA girls basketball 2nd-round matchups
Class 6A
PIAA 2nd round sites, times announced for boys basketball playoffs
Class 6A
WPIAL, City League champions will clash at Canon-McMillan
WPIAL champion Mt. Lebanon and City League champion Allderdice will meet Wednesday night at Canon-McMillan in the second round of the PIAA Class 6A boys basketball playoffs.
4 WPIAL track standouts compete Sunday at New Balance Nationals Indoor in New York
Four WPIAL track standouts will compete Sunday at the New Balance Indoor Nationals in New York.
City League champion Allderdice defeats Canon-McMillan in overtime
March 9, 2019
Canon-McMillan chose to chase Allderdice’s guards around the court, so the Dragons turned instead to their 6-foot-7 center with a scorer’s touch.
WPIAL champion Neshannock advances in PIAA playoffs with 4-point victory over Tyrone
Neleh Nogay scored 14 points and Bella Burrelli added 10 as WPIAL champion Neshannock defeated Tyrone, 42-38, Friday night in a PIAA Class 3A first-round victory at North Allegheny.
WPIAL champion New Castle holds off Titusville in PIAA 1st-round victory
This was the sixth time New Castle entered the state playoffs as WPIAL champion under coach Ralph Blundo, so he understands the so-called “WPIAL hangover” better than most.
5 things to watch in the PIAA boys basketball playoffs
March 7, 2019
Coach Dan DeRose and his Penn Hills boys basketball players are leaving at 10 a.m. Friday for a four-hour bus ride to Hershey, the site picked for their state playoff opener.
WPIAL passing leader Tyler Bradley commits to Seton Hill
March 6, 2019
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart quarterback Tyler Bradley, the WPIAL’s top passer last season, committed Tuesday to Seton Hill.
Texas A&M joins schools recruiting Gateway sophomore Derrick Davis
Gateway’s Derrick Davis has another major college football team interested in him.
Chartiers Valley freshman Aislin Malcolm draws basketball offer from Pitt
Chartiers Valley freshman Aislin Malcolm scored 18 points Saturday at Petersen Events Center when her Colts won the WPIAL Class 5A girls basketball title.
PCN will re-air Quaker Valley vs. Annville-Cleonas PIAA basketball final from 1999
March 5, 2019
The Quaker Valley boys basketball team and coach Mike Mastroianni experienced a heartbreaking state championship loss to Annville-Cleonas 20 years ago this winter.
North Hills AD Amy Scheuneman joining WPIAL administration
March 4, 2019
North Hills athletic director Amy Scheuneman will resign this summer and accept an administrative position with the WPIAL.
Pine-Richland junior Luke Meckler adds 1st FBS offer
March 3, 2019
Pine-Richland junior Luke Meckler, a two-way standout for the WPIAL champion Rams, added his first FBS offer.
Aliquippa linebacker Zuriah Fisher adds Big 10 offer
Aliquippa junior Zuriah Fisher, a standout linebacker on a state championship defense, added his first Big 10 college offer.
Pitt, WVU recruits among Maryland picks for Big 33 Football Classic
Pitt recruit A.J. Woods, a cornerback from Germantown, Md., was among the 38 high school football players chosen to represent Maryland in the Big 33 Football Classic.
Mt. Lebanon shows patience in WPIAL championship win over Butler
March 2, 2019
Mt. Lebanon wanted to keep the ball out of Ethan Morton’s hands, so the Blue Devils just held onto it themselves.
WPIAL Class 4A boys basketball preview: New Castle vs. Quaker Valley
Class 4A boys
WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball preview: Butler vs. Mt. Lebanon
Class 6A boys
Recchia’s late 3-pointer helps Mars defend WPIAL Class 5A championship
March 1, 2019
Andrew Recchia was the only person at Petersen Events Center who already knew how this WPIAL championship would end.
WPIAL Class 2A boys basketball preview: OLSH vs. Serra Catholic
Class 2A boys
Lincoln Park tops North Catholic to claim WPIAL Class 3A championship
February 28, 2019
Against one of the WPIAL’s top shooting teams, Lincoln Park’s defense was willing to trade 3s for 2s.
Butler boys advance to WPIAL finals after emotional win over rival Pine-Richland
February 27, 2019
The final minute was so emotional, so unbelievable, that it seemed like an eternity to Ethan Morton and his Butler teammates.
WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball finals preview: Lincoln Park vs. North Catholic
Class 3A boys
WPIAL Class 5A boys basketball preview: Mars vs. Moon
Class 5A boys
Johnson’s double-double guides No. 3 Moon past Penn Hills in Class 5A semifinals
February 26, 2019
Two years ago, a star basketball player transferred home to Moon, reunited with his childhood friends and led the Tigers’ run to the WPIAL finals.
Longtime coach Chuck Crummie ‘hurt’ after Central Catholic fires him
Chuck Crummie will no longer coach on Chuck Crummie Court.
Five things to watch in the WPIAL boys basketball semifinals
February 25, 2019
As the old saying goes, it’s hard to beat a team three times in one season.
West Allegheny hires WPIAL champion to replace Bob Palko as track coach
February 22, 2019
West Allegheny lost one WPIAL champion coach but quickly added another.
No. 1 Lincoln Park scores first 14 points in victory over Beaver Falls
February 21, 2019
Lincoln Park’s Keeno Holmes made a 3-pointer on the opening possession and Isaiah Smith added another seconds later as the Leopards scored the first 14 points in Thursday night’s 82-54 victory over Beaver Falls in a WPIAL Class 3A quarterfinal at New Castle.
No. 2 Aliquippa erases 14-point second-half deficit to defeat Neshannock
M.J. Devonshire was taking his official recruiting visit to Kentucky when Aliquippa lost to Neshannock in January, a loss that bothered him hundreds of miles away.
WPIAL Hall of Fame to announce 13th induction class
February 20, 2019
For some all-time WPIAL greats, 13 will be their lucky number.
WPIAL adds 2 boys basketball teams for 2019-20 season
One WPIAL boys basketball section will have a new look next season.
Carlynton hires former Peters Township football coach Piccinini
Carlynton has hired Rich Piccinini as football coach, the school announced Wednesday.
WPIAL schedules Aliquippa/Lincoln Park doubleheader at New Castle
February 19, 2019
Lincoln Park and Aliquippa, the WPIAL’s top seeds in Class 3A boys basketball, can’t meet until the finals.
Shaler defeats McKeesport, celebrates 1st playoff win since ’12
It’s been awhile since this kind of celebration was heard inside Shaler’s locker room.
Fox Chapel feels it after 1st quarter, beats Seneca Valley
February 18, 2019
Fox Chapel missed 10 of its first 11 shots Tuesday night, a dismal start that could have doomed the team’s playoff hopes, but then suddenly, they almost couldn’t miss.
4 WPIAL athletes win multiple individual golds at TSTCA indoor championship
February 17, 2019
Mt. Lebanon junior Patrick Anderson ran the state’s fastest mile Saturday and four WPIAL athletes won multiple individual gold medals at the TSTCA indoor championships in Edinboro.
Penn Hills football’s Daequan Hardy receives another postseason award
Penn Hills senior Daequan Hardy added another postseason honor to his list.
Ohio State joins list of schools recruiting Mars’ Michael Carmody
February 15, 2019
Mars junior Michael Carmody added his ninth Big 10 football offer Thursday when conference champion Ohio State joined his scholarship list.
North Catholic football standout Nikhai Hill-Green announces transfer out of state
North Catholic’s Nikhai Hill-Green, one of the WPIAL’s top football players, said Friday that he’s transferring out of state.
No. 6 Union tops No. 11 Clairton with barrage of third-quarter 3-pointers
February 14, 2019
Union followed a nine-point second quarter with a 29-point third, and the difference was a few well-timed 3-pointers.
5 things to watch in the opening round of the WPIAL boys basketball playoffs
Good bye or bad bye?
PIAA football semifinals schedule: Penn Hills, Pine-Richland head east
November 25, 2018
Penn Hills and Pine-Richland have long bus rides ahead next weekend, while three other WPIAL football champions can stay closer to home. The PIAA announced semifinal sites and times Sunday. Penn Hills will travel to Chambersburg for a matchup with Archbishop Wood at 7 p.m., Friday. Pine-Richland returns to Altoona's
WPIAL causes buzz by seeding Burgettstown second in deep Class 2A bracket
October 29, 2018
When the Class 2A bracket appeared on the overhead screen, Mark Druga knew immediately that his phone would start buzzing, so he turned it off. andquot;I did not want to interrupt the process,andquot; the Burgettstown coach said Monday at the WPIAL pairings meeting. andquot;I didn't want to be that guy,
With Heinz Field rematch possible, might Pine-Richland, North Allegheny hold back in regular-season finale?
October 26, 2018
It's possible that Pine-Richland and North Allegheny will play one another twice in the span of a few weeks. The two top-ranked rivals are favorites to rematch in the WPIAL Class 6A final, so might that affect how NA coach Art Walker and Pine's Eric Kasperowicz approach Friday's matchup in
Five things we learned in Week 8 of high school football
October 20, 2018
Anyone have a spare quarter It's looking likely the WPIAL will need a coin flip to break a three-way tie for first place in the Class A Tri-County South. If head-to-head results, Gardner Points and the WPIAL's margin-of-victory formula can't break a tie, the deciding factor becomes chance. The WPIAL
WPIAL high school football rankings for week of Oct. 6, 2018
October 6, 2018
WPIAL football Class 6A 1. Pine-Richland, 6-1, 1 2. North Allegheny, 7-0, 2 3. Central Catholic, 5-2, 3 4. Seneca Valley, 5-2, 4 5. Mt. Lebanon, 3-4, 5 Out: none Class 5A 1. Gateway, 7-0, 1 2. Penn Hills, 7-0, 2 3. Peters Township, 5-2, 3 4. West Allegheny, 5-1,
Undefeated records add intensity to Aliquippa-Beaver Falls rivalry
September 21, 2018
Mike Warfield graduated from Aliquippa, played quarterback for the Quips and now is the football team's first-year coach. His wife is a Beaver Falls native
Five things we learned from Week 2 of high school football
September 8, 2018
Greg Perry's teams are known for throwing the football. In his time at Seton LaSalle, where he went from quarterbacks coach to offensive coordinator and
Title game rematches on tap in Week 2 of high school football
September 6, 2018
RJ Hart and his Imani Christian teammates have waited nearly 10 months for this week. They've craved a rematch with Jeannette ever since last year'sCentral Catholic uses ‘mean, nasty football’ to break Cathedral Prep’s 28-game wins streak
August 25, 2018
Central Catholic's offense ran the football 28 times in the second half Friday, mostly between the tackles, and its defense held strong on a crucial
North Allegheny decathlete Ayden Owens places 12th at IAAF World U20 Championship
July 12, 2018
Ayden Owens' international track debut didn't end with a medal Wednesday, but the decathlete did add his name to the IAAF record books. The recent
Class 5A football coaches approve of WPIAL’s choice for title game
June 25, 2018
Penn-Trafford football coach John Ruane and Gateway's Don Holl understand the atmosphere and excitement that come with Heinz Field. Their teams were there on opposite
Pennsylvania House of Representatives recognizes Vincentian baseball team
June 21, 2018
The state House of Representatives recognized Vincentian Academy's baseball team for its PIAA championship during a ceremony Thursday in Harrisburg. Speaker of the House Mike
WPIAL champion North Hills falls to Red Land in opening round of PIAA playoffs
June 4, 2018
Five days after celebrating a WPIAL baseball championship at Wild Things Park, North Hills' magical season ended on the same field. North Hills managed only
Knoch’s Jordan Geist headed to NCAAs in both shot put, discus
June 3, 2018
PIAA record-holder Jordan Geist, now a freshman thrower at Arizona, will compete for a national title in the shot put and discus this week at
Penn Hills’ Daivon Stephens signs with Eastern Michigan
May 12, 2018
Daivon Stephens, who led Penn Hills to a WPIAL Class 6A basketball title, signed Saturday with Eastern Michigan. Penn Hills announced the senior's decision on
Thomas Burns wins state football title in Pa., track title in Fla.
May 7, 2018
In the same school year, Thomas Burns won a state football title in Pennsylvania and a state track title in Florida. Burns, the brother of
Downpour creates ‘brutal’ 1,600 meters at Baldwin Invite
May 5, 2018
Mt. Lebanon's Patrick Anderson was leading the boys 1,600-meter race when the storm clouds let loose over the Baldwin Invitational. The rain was shockingly cold,
North Allegheny’s Ayden Owens breaks Dion Bentley’s decades-old record at Baldwin Invitational
Days like this are why Ayden Owens is a Southern Cal recruit. The North Allegheny senior dazzled Friday at the Baldwin Invitation by sweeping the
Tennis finals rematch among Friday’s 3 things to watch in high school sports
May 4, 2018
For the second season in a row, Peters Township's Connor Bruce and Fox Chapel's Robby Shymansky will battle in the WPIAL tennis finals. The two
Class AA boys team tennis tournament tops Friday’s WPIAL schedule
April 20, 2018
Sewickley Academy starts its quest for a 15th consecutive WPIAL Class AA championship when the boys team tennis tournament begins Friday with first-round matches. Sewickley
Quaker Valley’s offense struggles in PIAA semifinal loss to Sharon
March 20, 2018
For Quaker Valley, this was the kind of night where even a breakaway layup bounced off the side of the rim. Sharon quickly grabbed thatBaskets scarce as Franklin Regional edges Moon in WPIAL quarterfinals
February 23, 2018
Two free throws in the final 22 seconds by junior Nick Leopold accounted for Franklin Regional's entire offensive output for the fourth quarter. Somehow, those
Aliquippa school board votes to open position of football coach Mike Zmijanac
February 21, 2018
Mike Zmijanac listened quietly from the small auditorium's seats as a former player and several others asked the Aliquippa school board to let the hall
OLSH-Sewickley Academy rematch part of 3 things to watch Friday in WPIAL athletics
February 9, 2018
Two points separated Our Lady of the Sacred Heart and Sewickley Academy when the boys basketball teams met last month. OLSH won 70-68, breaking their
Allderdice, Canon-McMillan, Jeannette enter PIAA boys basketball rankings
January 29, 2018
A day after rising to No. 1 in the Trib's WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball rankings, Canon-McMillan earned a spot in the City of Basketball
Mt. Lebanon wideout Aidan Cain commits to William & Mary
January 27, 2018
When college recruiters visited Mt. Lebanon, football coach Mike Melnyk told them to keep their eyes on little-known Aidan Cain. The wideout had Division 1
Boys basketball section rematches are part of 3 things to watch Friday in WPIAL athletics
January 18, 2018
A number of boys basketball sections have reached the season's midway point, so it's time battle everybody again. Among Friday night's games is a section
Top-ranked Quaker Valley gets defensive to defeat No. 2 Ambridge
January 17, 2018
With Drexel recruit Coletrane Washington in the lineup, Quaker Valley can score with anybody in the WPIAL, so a 23-point quarter isn't all that unusual.Three top-ranked teams to compete at Mt. Lebanon
January 3, 2018
Three top-ranked WPIAL basketball teams will share a gym Saturday when Mt. Lebanon hosts andquot;The Challenge.andquot; The 10-team event features the top-ranked Mt. Lebanon boys
Bethel Park boys hold off Upper St. Clair rally in Section 2-6A clash
After a gritty 26-point effort, Bethel Park senior Justin Meis still surmised that he's probably not the best basketball player on the team or even
QB Phil Jurkovec shines as No. 1 Pine-Richland tops rival North Allegheny to reach WPIAL Class 6A final
November 11, 2017
The only accolade absent from Phil Jurkovec's resume, a sensational three-year span that already has him mentioned among the WPIAL greats, is a championship. He
High school football notebook: Rematches tough to avoid in WPIAL 1st round
November 1, 2017
Montour and New Castle tied for second in the Northwest Nine, but the WPIAL scheduled them head-to-head for the ultimate tiebreaker. The conference foes meet
California among top seeds for WPIAL football playoffs
October 30, 2017
The WPIAL football committee wasn't always kind to the Tri-County South Conference. So, California coach Darrin Dillow wasn't sure his undefeated Trojans would be aHarlan on recruiting: Joey Porter Jr. making a name for himself at NA
October 25, 2017
Joey Porter Jr. was born with one of the most recognizable names in the WPIAL, but the North Allegheny junior quickly is making a name
Gateway defense comes through in clutch to defeat McKeesport
October 21, 2017
As the clocked ticked away, as McKeesport was pushing downfield, as Gateway's lead started to feel temporary, Gators junior Jeremiah Josephs started thinking about last
5 things to watch in Week 8 of high school football: Teams control playoff destiny
October 19, 2017
Win and you're in. That's the mindset a number of WPIAL teams can embrace Friday night, knowing their playoff destinies are entirely in their own
Upper St. Clair upsets No. 1 West Allegheny in OT after failed 2-point conversion
October 7, 2017
Your luck finally ran out, Upper St. Clair's Jim Render told West Allegheny's Bob Palko with a lighthearted chuckle, as the two coaches embraced. Palko
Five things we learned from Week 4 of high school football
September 30, 2017
This wasn't quite David and Goliath, but Imani Christian coach Ronnell Heard considered Friday's win a godsend. andquot;I think Friday night was a moment in
Five things to watch in Week 5: Teams jockey for position in Big East Conference
September 28, 2017
That will become a little more clear after No. 3-ranked Gateway visits No. 2 Penn-Trafford on Friday night for a first-place matchup of undefeated teams.
5 things to watch in Week 4: Pine-Richland heads to Bethel Park for battle of unbeatens
September 21, 2017
Battle of the unbeatens Bethel Park has linemen with some size, an offense that controls the football and a defense that has allowed just four
Harlan on recruiting: East Allegheny TE Banks sets commitment date
August 30, 2017
East Allegheny senior TJ Banks decided this week to pick a Wednesday in mid-October as his commitment date, the day he'll announce which Division I
HS football position by position breakdown: Scouting the quarterbacks
August 12, 2017
The WPIAL had its first career 5,000-yard passer in 1993, when then-North Hills senior Eric Kasperowicz reached the lofty number. Now, the list is almost
